Fundraising ideas for school trips

8 funding for school trips ideas

Bring & buy sale

Give unwanted clothes, books, games and household items a new lease of life with a bring-and-buy sale. Ask students and families to donate items in good condition, then sell them at school to raise money.

Best thing about this idea: It’s an affordable, sustainable way to fundraise, and there’s something for everyone!

Coffee & cake morning

Invite students, parents and teachers to contribute homemade cakes and sweet treats. Sell them alongside tea and coffee before school or at a school event.

Best thing about this idea: It’s a simple way to bring the school community together while raising money.

Use technology

Set up an online fundraising page explaining where students are going and what they’ll gain from the experience. Share it through approved school communication channels to reach friends, family and the wider community.

Best thing about this idea: You can reach supporters who might not otherwise be able to attend a fundraising event.

Run errands

Organise a supervised car wash, sponsored litter pick or community gardening event. Students can contribute their time and skills while raising money for their upcoming trip.

Best thing about this idea: It encourages teamwork and gives students the chance to support their local community.

Raffle or tombola

Ask local businesses and families to donate suitable prizes, then sell tickets at school events. Vouchers, books and family experiences can all help attract interest.

Best thing about this idea: Donated prizes can keep costs low while encouraging support from the wider community.

Get arty

Let students showcase their creativity through an art exhibition, handmade crafts sale or student-designed calendars. You could charge an entry fee or sell selected pieces to raise funds.

Best thing about this idea: Students can celebrate their individuality while contributing to a shared goal.

Sponsored sports

Organise a sponsored walk, dance challenge or school sports tournament. Students can collect sponsorship from friends and family, making this a particularly relevant option for a sports tour abroad.

Best thing about this idea: It builds team spirit and gives students a shared sense of achievement.

Put on a show

Host a talent show, concert or school play and sell tickets to parents, friends and local supporters. Students can also help with costumes, sound, lighting and promotion.

Best thing about this idea: It celebrates students’ talents while bringing the school community together.

Other ways to fund a school trip

Fundraising events aren’t the only way to reduce the cost of educational travel. Consider these additional options:

• Explore grants: Charities, trusts and some local authorities may offer financial assistance for eligible educational visits.
• Involve the PTA: Work together on school fairs, quiz nights or other community fundraising events.
• Approach local businesses: Ask about donations, sponsorship or matching the money raised by students.
• Offer flexible payments: Monthly instalments can help families spread the cost over time.
• Review trip costs: Where dates are flexible, travelling outside peak periods may offer savings.

Schools may also be able to provide financial assistance through appropriate school-based funding arrangements. Check eligibility and school policies before making commitments.

Making school trips accessible: The Carlton Academy

At The Carlton Academy in Nottingham, Head of Performing Arts Vicky Moroziuk understands the importance of helping students access educational tours, whatever their family’s financial circumstances.

The school uses pupil premium funding arrangements to contribute 50% towards the cost of a tour for eligible students, with families covering the remaining amount. Monthly instalments help spread payments, and the school has also shown flexibility when accommodating a late addition to a tour.

Vicky’s experience highlights how combining financial support with manageable payment plans can help reduce barriers to participation.

Every school has different budgets and eligibility requirements, but exploring these options early can make a meaningful difference.