Fundraising ideas for small schools

See practical advice and examples from other schools on fundraising for small or rural schools, to help you combat any challenges in generating income. Plus, use our fundraising planning sheet to get started.

Last reviewed on 5 August 2024
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 33492
Contents
  1. Set up a fundraising group and appoint someone to lead it
  2. Use our planning sheet template to get started
  3. Check up on progress
  4. Apply for grants
  5. Market your school effectively
  6. Engage your local community
  7. Talk to local businesses 
  8. Maximise your donations with Gift Aid
  9. Promote to get the word out
  10. Rent out your school spaces
  11. Work with other schools 

This article focuses on fundraising for small or rural schools. If this doesn’t apply to you, head to our article on generating income and maximising funds.

Please note: the inclusion of commercial providers doesn’t constitute an endorsement from The Key. 

Set up a fundraising group and appoint someone to lead it

Identify a person or couple of people in your school community to ‘own’ the fundraising effort and organise others involved. This will help keep up your project's momentum and make sure there's someone clearly in charge. This person could be:

  • A governor
  • Another staff member
  • A parent/carer who is actively involved in school life

You could also create a