Applications Open for Clore School Choirs and Singing Programme

The Clore Duffield Foundation has opened applications for the Clore School Choirs and Singing Programme, supporting choirs and group singing in state-funded schools across England. The Clore Duffield Foundation is a grant-making foundation supporting cultural learning, education, and the arts.

Between five and ten organisations will receive £50,000 to £100,000 a year for three years to build choirs and group singing with state-funded schools in England. Applications are invited from not-for-profit organisations with expertise and a track record in choirs and group vocal work, each working with a group of at least three state-funded schools (primary, secondary or both). Applications close at midday on 30th October and delivery begins in autumn 2027.

The Foundation’s consultation and research found that choirs rarely thrive on their own: they need a school where singing is normal and valued, and the programme looks for both. The Clore School Choirs and Singing Programme aims to address this by creating more sustainable models in areas of need. Teachers and visiting practitioners are expected to develop alongside one another, so that what is built stays in the school and in the partnership. The funded projects will also form a national cohort, meeting across the three years and publishing what they learn.

Dame Vivien Duffield, Chair of the Clore Duffield Foundation, said:
“I have always loved choirs, and I want more children to have the chance to be part of one. When I have talked to schools, I have been struck by how often the choir depends on one keen and confident teacher who is willing to make it happen. If that teacher leaves, very often the choir goes too. That seems such a pity. A good school choir gives children the chance to develop their singing, their musicianship and their confidence, and to experience the pleasure of making music together. I hope this programme will help more schools make singing a lasting part of school life.”

Kate Bellamy, Director of the Clore Duffield Foundation, said:
“We have designed this programme around what schools and organisations have told us they need: time to develop strong partnerships, and the opportunity for teachers and visiting practitioners to learn from each other . We are looking for ambition: three years at this level of funding should make possible something an organisation could not otherwise attempt. We want the organisations taking part to learn from each other too. By bringing the projects together as a cohort and sharing what they discover, we hope the programme will contribute to a stronger and more sustainable picture of school singing across England.”

Apply for the Clore School Choirs and Singing Programme

Applications are made online and close at midday on Friday 30th October 2026. An information webinar takes place on Tuesday 29th September, 1.10 to 1.50pm, and will be recorded. Organisations invited to interview will meet the Foundation in February 2027, with awards confirmed in spring 2027.

Full guidance, frequently asked questions and the application form are available at cloreduffield.org.uk.