The Froebel Trust Research Grant supports high-quality research that explores early childhood education, care, and development. The programme funds studies that seek to understand how young children learn, play, and adapt in different environments. By investing in these research areas, the Froebel Trust strengthens evidence that deals with early years practice and policy decisions across the sector.
About the Froebel Trust Research Grant
The Froebel Trust Research Grant funds original research aligned with Froebelian principles, including holistic development and play-based learning. It is also interested in areas like creativity, relationships, and respect for childhood. The programme welcomes interdisciplinary methods and supports projects that connect theory with practice. Funded research often addresses key issues in early childhood pedagogy, learning environments, and educator practice.
The grant values research that engages meaningfully with educators, children, and families. Projects should demonstrate ethical sensitivity and a clear understanding of early childhood contexts. By encouraging collaboration between researchers and practitioners, the programme ensures that findings provide insights that benefit early learning environments. The Trust also encourages sharing research solutions with educators, policymakers, and the wider public.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: £20,000
- Maximum award: £75,000
- Project duration supported: up to two years
Grant funding supports research-related costs, including data collection, fieldwork, analysis, research assistance, dissemination activities, and knowledge exchange.
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Who Can Apply for the Froebel Trust Research Grant
Eligible organisation types
- Universities and higher education institutions
- Research organisations and institutes
- Partnerships involving academic researchers and early years organisations
Registration or legal documents
- Proof of institutional affiliation or organisational registration
- Evidence of research governance and ethical approval processes
- Financial and administrative capacity documentation
Project focus requirements
- Research centred on early childhood education and care
- Clear alignment with Froebelian values or principles
- Well-defined research questions, methods, and anticipated contributions
Geographic eligibility
- Applicants based in the United Kingdom
- International collaboration is permitted when led by a UK-based institution
Sector or thematic focus
- Early childhood pedagogy and curriculum
- Play, creativity, and learning environments
- Inclusion, equity, and child wellbeing
- Professional practice and early years workforce development
Application Process
- Review the Trust’s research priorities and eligibility criteria
- Develop a detailed research proposal and timeline
- Prepare a transparent and realistic budget
- Submit the completed application during the open call
- Respond to peer review or clarification requests if required
- Receive notification of funding decisions
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Research proposal outlining aims, methods, and impact
- Budget and justification
- Institutional endorsement and researcher credentials
Key Dates
- Applications open: February 2026
- Application deadline: April 30, 2026
- Review period: May to July 2026
- Funding decisions announced: September 2026
- Project start period: October 2026 onward
Selection Notes
- The programme is competitive and funds a limited number of projects
- Reviewers prioritise research with strong relevance to early childhood practice and policy
- Individuals without institutional affiliation, projects outside early childhood education, and proposals lacking methodological rigour are not eligible
Official Source Of the Froebel Trust Research Grant
Application Page: https://froebeltrust.my.site.com/s/research-grant-application
