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The aim of the scheme is to provide schools with grants of up to £500 for projects or events linked to the teaching or promotion of physics. Projects linked to astronomy, space and particle physics are particularly encouraged.

Since the scheme was established in 2005 the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and the Institute of Physics (IOP) have awarded almost £250,000 to projects that have benefited over 94,000 pupils.

Grants can be used to support a range of projects, for example:

• running a school / college-based science week activity
• purchasing materials / resources outside of the normal department resources
• organising a visit to or from a working physicist

Eligibility and timing

The scheme is open to all UK educational institutions (schools and colleges) catering for pupils / students in the age range 5-18.

Maybe you could use the money to purchase a telescope for your school, or organise a visit to a space company in your region or perhaps you could take a group of students to your local planetarium or space centre?

There are three deadlines per year:

• 1 February 2011 - for projects taking place in the summer term 2011
• 1 June 2011 - for projects taking place in the autumn term 2011
• 1 November 2011 - for projects taking place in the spring term 2012

For details of how to apply including guidance notes, evaluation and planning your project notes, please visit the IOP website.

If you have any further questions about the scheme please email schoolgrants@iop.org.