Guide to Funding Your Playground Markings Project

Author: Rebecca Occomore
Updated on: November 25, 2024

Creating an engaging outdoor environment for children is a top priority for many schools and communities. Playground markings and equipment offer a cost-effective and dynamic way to encourage play, physical activity and learning, however finding the funds for these projects can often be challenging.

Financial pressures on school and community budgets mean that many worthwhile projects, which would help the education and development of children and young people, may not get off the ground simply because of the absence of funding.

In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to help fund playground markings so your school can bring these vibrant and educational spaces to life, including:

• Sports Premium
• Awards for All Grant
• Blue Spark Foundation
• EV Charge Point Grant
• Fundraising Strategies for Playground Markings
• Cost-Saving Tips

Sports Premium

Sports Premium is a government-funded initiative to improve physical education and sports provision in primary schools across the UK. Sports Premium allocations are automatic and are based on school data, so you don’t need to apply. Most primary schools are eligible for Sports Premium funding, including academies, special schools, non-maintained schools and PRUs.

Key Points:

• Purpose: To enhance PE and sports provisions in schools.
• Eligibility: Primary schools in the UK.
• Funding Use: Only for sports and PE, to replace or refresh activities, facilities or equipment. The money should be used to benefit all children and build attainment.

Fun & Active Playgrounds can help you make long-lasting strategic investments with your Sports Premium funding, using different durable and easy-to-maintain thermoplastic markings for your playground.

Find out more about how Sports Premium funding can be used and spending ideas for your school.

Awards for All Grant

The Awards for All is a funding scheme provided by the National Lottery. It aims to support people and communities in improving the places they live and the wellbeing of those in need. Since the initiative began around 20 years ago, over 3000 playground projects have been funded by the National Lottery Awards for All scheme, totalling over £61 million.

Key Points:

• Amount: Grants range from £300 to £20,000.
• Eligibility: Schools, local authorities and nonprofit organisations across the UK.
• Funding Use: Can be used for playground markings that support community health, educational enrichment and active play.

Applications for Awards for All funding are to be completed online and since it could take around 16 weeks for the National Lottery to confirm if you have been successful, it’s best to submit your application at least 16 weeks before you would like your project to begin.

Discover further information about Awards for All funding and how it can be used to benefit your school.

Blue Spark Foundation

The Blue Spark Foundation is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting the education and development of children and young people. They provide grants to schools, colleges and community groups for projects that enhance the lives of children. Their focus areas include arts, sports, education and the environment.

Key Points:

• Amount: Up to £5,000 per project.
• Eligibility: Schools and community groups with projects focusing on youth enrichment and development.
• Funding Use: Projects that directly benefit children’s educational and developmental experiences.

All applications for a grant must be made online using their standard Application Form which should be completed by the person leading the project. Please ensure you have read their Grant Policy in detail before making your application and complete all sections of the form fully and clearly.

See more about Blue Spark Foundation funding, what type of project can be funded and detailed information about how to apply.

EV Charge Point Grants

If your school is considering the installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargers in your school car park, you can apply for a Department of Transport Workplace Charging Scheme grant, designed to assist with the costs of installing electric vehicle chargers and bay markings.

Key Points:

• Amount: Up to 75% off the cost of purchase and installation charge, up to a maximum value of £2,500.
• Eligibility: Local authorities, businesses and community facilities; including state-funded schools, colleges, nurseries and academies.
• Funding Use: While specifically for EV infrastructure, these grants can support overall site enhancements, allowing schools to allocate other funds toward playground markings.

Before applying, make sure you have had a site survey conducted by an EV charge point installer. Ensure you have confirmation from them that your site can support the electrical capacity for the number of sockets you would like and then simply complete the online application form.

Find out more about the Workplace Charging Scheme and how it can support your schools sustainability plan.

Fundraising Strategies for Playground Markings

In addition to grant funding, schools and organisations can take advantage of various fundraising methods to generate funds for playground markings. 

Before initiating fundraising efforts, it’s essential to outline your goals and objectives. Are you looking to refresh your existing markings, add a couple of new playground games or do a whole playground renovation? Once you’ve outlined these objectives, this will allow you to work to a specific timeframe and fund accordingly.

• School events and fairs: Organising bake or toy sales, a school disco or non-uniform day can be an enjoyable way for the community to get involved and contribute toward new playground features.
• Community engagement: Reach out to local businesses or community groups for sponsorship opportunities. Many businesses are willing to sponsor playground improvements in exchange for recognition.
• Crowdfunding campaigns: Platforms like GoFundMe or JustGiving allow schools to reach a wider audience. By sharing the campaign on social media, schools can increase their chances of reaching fundraising goals.

Discover more ideas in our Fundraising Strategies for School Playground Markings blog.

Cost-Saving Tips

In this section, we’ll provide practical, cost-saving strategies to help you achieve high-quality, creative results whilst staying within your school’s financial limits.

1. Choose outline over solid

One way to save money is by opting for outline designs instead of solid ones. Outline designs use less material, reducing costs while still providing vibrant and engaging visuals. A great example it our outline target vs our solid target.

2. Combine multiple games

Additionally, consider combining multiple games and activities within a single marking. This not only saves space but also cuts down on the number of individual markings you need to purchase and install. See how one school did this by combining an Under the Sea Phonics marking within a roadway in the image below!

3. Take advantage of our special offers

Make your money go further with our special offers and choose a free playground marking to match your level of spend. Simply ask us and claim the offer before proceeding with an order.

4. Make savings with our packages

We provide a range of bundled options that combine popular playground markings at a discounted rate. These packages are designed to give you the best value while ensuring your playground is both fun and functional.

Securing funding for playground markings can significantly improve outdoor spaces, providing children with areas that encourage both physical health and social development. By exploring grants and employing creative fundraising techniques, schools and community groups can bring their playground improvement plans to life.

Investing in playground markings is an investment in the future of our children. Start applying for these grants or organising fundraising efforts today, and make active play accessible for every child in your school community!