Study Essentials Grant

To support students from East London who are studying for a degree at universities in and around the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

• How to Apply

  Applying is simple and transparent. To apply, you’ll need to:

  • Explain why you need support

  • Describe what you plan to use the funding for

  We ask for a short statement outlining why you’re applying and a clear description of the items or resources you intend to purchase. This helps us understand how the funding will support your success.

  Applications are assessed on how well they meet the programme’s criteria and how clearly applicants explain their need. We carefully review each application to make sure funding goes to those who will benefit most.

  The process is designed to be quick and straightforward - just tell us your story and your goals, and we’ll take it from there.

  What the Grant Can Cover

  Examples of eligible costs include:

  • Digital equipment (cameras, microphones, headphones)

  • Computers, laptops, tablets, and accessories

  • Software licences (design, editing, animation)

  • Printing and production costs (portfolios, posters)

  • Technology accessories (external drives, styluses, chargers)

  • Art supplies (paints, brushes, canvases, sketchbooks)

  • Craft materials (fabric, beads, clay, textiles)

  • Musical instruments and accessories

  • Costumes and props for performances

  • Photography equipment and accessories

  • Model-making materials and tools

  • Safety or protective gear for practical work

  • Studio or rehearsal space rental fees

  • Materials for set design and construction

  • Books and reference materials

  • Participation fees for exhibitions, showcases, or cultural events

  • Access to workshops, masterclasses, or specialist training

• Eligibility

  Applicants must:

  • Be a current resident of Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets, or Waltham Forest

  • Have attended primary and/or secondary school in one of these boroughs

  • Be enrolled in a Level 3 or higher accredited course at one of the following Park or East London based institutions:

  • • Building Crafts College

  • • Loughborough University London

  • • Queen Mary University London

  • • Sadler’s Wells / Academy Breakin’ Convention

  • • Staffordshire University London

  • • Teesside University London

  • • UCL East campus

  • • University of East London

  • • University of the Arts London: London College of Fashion
  • • V&A Royal College of Art
  • Be aged 16+ at the time of application

  Priority will be given to students who meet the above criteria and are also from under-represented groups, including:

  • People from global majority backgrounds (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic)

  • People from low socio-economic backgrounds

  • People with disabilities

  Additional considerations:

  • Special consideration will be given to applicants who are refugees or who have been displaced from their home country due to war.

  • Special consideration will also be given to applicants who can demonstrate that they are, or have been, a care leaver or a young carer, and who currently live in one of the four eligible boroughs.

  • We recognise that Temporary Accommodation is a significant issue across the local boroughs. Applicants who meet all other eligibility criteria but are currently placed outside the four boroughs (while still under the care of one of the councils) will remain eligible.

  Award Conditions

  If selected, you’ll need to:

  • Provide proof of current enrolment (student status letter from student admin office)

  • Submit your own bank details for payment

  • Review and sign a grant agreement confirming your understanding of the terms and your responsibilities as a recipient

  Please note that if you have already been awarded this grant previously, you will not be eligible to apply again.