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Educational Visits and Learning Experiences Grant

The Educational Visits and Learning Experiences Grant supports schools and youth organisations with the costs of providing enriching trips and learning experiences for young people aged 11–25.

Eligible organisations participating in the Achievement Award Scheme can apply for two grants per calendar year, with a contribution of up to £20 per young person (to a maximum £1,200 grant value per application).

Please note that Uniformed Groups are not currently eligible for this grant.

Background

Since its launch in 2009, the Educational Visits and Learning Experiences programme has enabled thousands of young people to take part in memorable, inspiring visits – from theatre and university trips to nature-based adventures, galleries, museums, history tours – and so much more!

For many young people, these opportunities offer the chance to explore new places for the very first time.

At the Jack Petchey Foundation, we believe every young person should have the chance to learn beyond their immediate surroundings. Sir Jack often spoke about the value of “getting young people out and about” – encouraging them to experience things they may never otherwise see, whether that’s visiting the seaside, discovering wildlife, or taking part in activities that spark curiosity and ambition. These experiences directly support our mission to ensure young people across London and Essex can broaden their horizons and fulfil their potential.

Over the years, we are always inspired by the feedback we receive from teachers, youth leaders and volunteers who describe these trips as eye-opening, exciting and for some of their young people, totally transformative. The reports you share talk about how your young people have gained confidence, learnt new things, and seen the world from a fresh perspective. We are deeply grateful to all the adult staff and volunteers who generously give the time, energy and planning in to make these opportunities possible.

Hear from James Burns, Grants Officer and Lead for the Educational Visits and Learning Experiences Grant, about why the programme matters.

Read James’s Blog here

What our Educational Visits and Learning Experiences Grant can fund

The Educational Visits and Learning Experiences Grant supports a wide range of inspiring, curriculum-enhancing and confidence-building opportunities for young people. These experiences should give young people the chance to learn, grow, explore and develop new skills – whether through culture, nature, sport, creativity, teamwork – or by facing a personal challenge.

The grant supports the costs of tickets, transport and accommodation for eligible educational trips and learning experiences across the UK, including singled-day trips and residential visits.

The Educational Visits and Learning Experiences Grant supports trips and visits which are designed to help young people:

  • Access new environments and experiences
  • Build teamwork, leadership and resilience
  • Connect with culture, nature and their community
  • Grow in confidence, independence and aspiration
  • Discover interests and opportunities they may not encounter otherwise

You can find out more in the Frequently Asked Questions, which include further examples of eligible activities.

Read FAQs here

How do I apply?

You can apply for the grant by logging into your Community Area and clicking Click here to apply for grants’.

For a full step by step guide, see our Frequently Asked Questions below.

Find out more

Join the Scheme!