Outdoor learning spaces, like Outclass hubs, are transformative environments where students thrive through sensory engagement and play-based education. While creating such spaces may seem financially daunting, there are several funding avenues schools can explore to bring these innovative hubs to life. Here’s how:
Government Grants Schools can tap into local, provincial, or federal grant programs designed to support educational initiatives, outdoor learning, or environmental projects. These grants often prioritise improving student experiences and well-being, which aligns perfectly with the goals of outdoor learning spaces. For example, New Zealand’s Ministry of Education offers property project grants that may include infrastructure enhancements.
Corporate Sponsorships Engaging businesses as partners can be a powerful way to secure funding. Outclass offers a tailored sponsorship program with Gold, Silver, and Bronze platforms to appeal to corporate sponsors and individuals. Schools can use free, editable sponsorship templates to craft compelling proposals that showcase how sponsors will receive recognition and a meaningful return on their investment. See below for more details or contact us for more information.
Community Trusts and Foundations Organisations like Trillian Trust, which one of our partner schools successfully approached, focus on community enrichment and education initiatives. Schools should consider applying to local foundations or trusts that align with their vision for sensory-friendly and outdoor learning environments.
Fundraising Events A school-wide fundraising event like a fun run, silent auction, or donation drive not only raises money but also brings the community together to support a shared goal. These events foster a sense of ownership among families and local supporters, making the achievement of creating an Outclass hub even more rewarding.
Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) PTAs are a great resource for organising funding initiatives. They often lead community efforts and campaigns, leveraging their close ties with parents and local businesses to gather resources. PTAs can amplify the outreach for sponsors and donors who believe in the school’s mission.
Creating an outdoor learning space is an investment in students’ well-being, growth, and education. With these funding options, schools can turn their vision into reality and provide students with sensory-friendly environments where they can thrive. Start your journey today, and let us help you make it happen!
Below is a list of New Zealand-based trusts, foundations, and grant schemes you can apply to:
Mitre 10 Helping Hands – Community Support
Tindall Foundation – tindall.org.nz
Top of the South Community Foundation – topsouthfoundation.org.nz
One Forty One – onefortyone.com/community
Trillian Trust – trillian.co.nz
Community Matters – communitymatters.govt.nz
Foodstuffs Community Trust – foodstuffs-si.co.nz
Rata Foundation – ratafoundation.org.nz
The McKee Charitable Trust – mckeetrust.org.nz
Mainland Foundation – mainlandfoundation.co.nz
Harcourts Foundation – harcourtsfoundation.org
Auckland Foundation – aucklandfoundation.org.nz
Foundation North – foundationnorth.org.nz
Lion Foundation – lionfoundation.nz
We’ve crafted a flexible grant application template designed to help you shape your own unique proposal.
This document offers a strong foundation that you can build upon to reflect your school’s story, priorities, and students’ needs. We encourage you to tailor it with details about the specific challenges your learners face — and the impact this initiative will have when those needs are met. Highlighting tangible outcomes and community benefits will strengthen your application.
Get in touch below, and we can send you through some editable templates to kick-start your applications for funding.
