Who can apply for a LBOC schools microgrant?
Any non-fee-paying school wishing to deliver a creative project during the period April 2025 – March 2026 can apply for an LBOC microgrant. Wandsworth Council is keen to support all schools (primary, secondary, sixth form colleges, SEND and PRU) to celebrate culture, heritage and the arts during LBOC, and will award microgrants to schools who can show in their application that their projects meet the LBOC key themes as listed above.
Do schools need to apply individually?
No, schools are welcome to work together and can apply for joint funding to make their projects even bigger.
How can a microgrant help my project?
Microgrant funding is designed to fund an activity or project that celebrates LBOC by providing e.g. visiting artists, resources or materials. This could be used to enhance an existing activity or create a new one.
What kinds of activities can be funded?
We are looking to celebrate arts, culture and creativity in schools across the borough. This could include e.g. a performance, an exhibition, workshops or a cultural celebration event.
Is there anything the microgrant cannot fund?
The microgrant cannot be used to pay for capital such as furniture, school equipment or internal staff time.
Can the microgrant fund something we are already planning to do?
Yes, as long as the activity is badged as part of London Borough of Culture and celebrates culture and creativity in your school. Guidance on this will be available.
How many pupils does my project need to involve?
While there is no minimum, we encourage LBOC activity to reach as many people as possible and will therefore prioritise projects that include more of the school community. If you have a specific reason to work with a small group, please make this clear in your application.
I’m not sure whether my idea is fundable – is there advice available?
Yes, we are very happy to speak to you about your idea before you submit an application. Please email creativewandsworth@wandsworth.gov.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Can I apply for more than one grant?
Funding is limited, so there is a maximum of one grant per school.
Is there help available to find a creative person to work with my school?
There are lots of amazing creative practitioners who work in schools. If you need some guidance, we’ll be happy to help.
Who will assess my application?
Applications will be assessed by staff in the London Borough of Culture team and Wandsworth Council.
When will I hear if I’ve been successful?
Applications will be reviewed fortnightly, on a rolling basis. If you have a strict deadline for your project, please make this clear in your application.
