About Us
Helping students and teachers to realise their potential
Apply for funding
that makes a real difference
Applications are now open for AQA’s
Purpose-Driven Partnerships Programme
The programme is a one-year funding opportunity for organisations working together to improve education.
We're investing in ambitious partnerships with grants of up to £40,000 + VAT (where applicable) to help create positive change for learners, teachers and the wider education sector.
This is not a typical grant – it’s about working together to make positive change across the education sector.
Applications are now open. Find everything you need on this page, including the programme guidance and application form.
Is this project right for my organisation?
Who can apply?
- Charities and non-profit organisations
- Schools, colleges and other education providers
- Social enterprises
- Research organisations
- SMEs and start-ups
- Partnerships or groups of organisations (with a lead organisation)
What kind of projects are we looking for?
Your project should align with at least one of these three value-led priorities.
- Customers front and centre: Improve experiences, remove barriers, or support training and development for teachers and centres.
- Being AQA: Support inclusive, collaborative and values-led ways of working.
- Explore and test new ideas: Find out what works, try new approaches, and share learning with others.
What funding is available?
We're investing in approximately 7–10 partnerships through grants of up to £40,000 + VAT (where applicable).
Funding awards will vary depending on the size and scope of each project.
Please read the programme guidance before completing your application.
The difference a partnership with us can make:
We are proud to celebrate our partnership with AQA, whose support of Rethinking Assessment is helping to drive meaningful change across the education landscape. This collaboration is already having tangible impact, supporting schools to innovate, challenge outdated practices, and place deeper learning at the heart of assessment. Together, we are building a more equitable and forward-thinking system that better recognises the full range of young people’s strengths and potential”
Liz Robinson, CEO Big Education
Start your application now
Simply complete the application form.
We'll ask you about:
- your organisation
- your project
- your partners (where applicable)
- the difference your project will make
- how your project aligns with the programme priorities
- how you'll use the funding
You can also upload a short supporting video if you'd like. This is optional and won't affect how your application is assessed.
What happens next?
- Applications close: 23 October 2026
- Funding decisions: February 2027
- Projects begin: Autumn 2027
- Projects complete: Summer 2028
Need help?
If you have a question about the programme or the application process, please contact us: