Wales

EDUCATIONAL EQUALITY

The Waterloo Foundation believes that "our education today is our economy tomorrow," emphasising the critical importance of affording every child the opportunity to reach their full potential during their school years. Our commitment is rooted in recognising that educational equality is vital, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have an equal chance to access quality education. This is especially critical in Wales, where the attainment gap between pupils from low-income households and their better-off peers persists and remains a significant challenge.

It's well-documented that there is a strong correlation exists between low educational achievement and factors such as low income, unemployment, economic inactivity, and social exclusion. By ensuring equal access to quality education for all, we not only give all children and young people the knowledge and skills necessary for personal success but we also contribute to Wales's overall prosperity and development.

In line with this commitment, we encourage funding applications to support children and young people aged 2-18. We firmly believe that promoting educational equality in the early years is just as paramount as school-age children, as it forms the bedrock of a child's lifelong learning journey and profoundly influences their future prospects. By addressing educational inequalities from the outset, society can break the cycle of disadvantage, promote social mobility, and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive future.

We particularly welcome applications from Wales-based organisations already embedded in communities that:

• Help parents support the educational development of their children in the early years
• Empower young people to improve their educational outcomes (particularly in relation to achieving C grades in English and Mathematics)
• Help inspire an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths)
• Facilitate access to opportunities for children and young people from low-income households that help improve their educational experience and prospects
• Support young people's emotional resilience, equipping them with the strength to navigate challenges, enhance mental health, and cultivate a positive mindset, ultimately promoting academic success and long-term well-being.