Open call research grants

We fund high quality research to advance knowledge and understanding of Froebelian philosophy, principles and approaches in early childhood education and care, which makes a positive impact on children, families and early childhood professional communities.

The Froebel Trust Open Call Research Grants scheme provides funding of up to £50,000 for a team or collaborative research partnership to develop new and robust knowledge about Froebelian education. This funded research is vital for the Trust to be able to fulfil its charitable mission of enabling early childhood educators, advocating for young children and their families, and informing policymakers.

The focus for applications this year (2026‑7) is ‘relationships matter’ although applicants will be expected to demonstrate a broader understanding of a Froebelian approach and to make links with the other Froebelian Principles.

Our next call for applications will take place in Spring 2028.

“This year has seen an exceptional response to our Open Call Grant, and we are excited to be funding six new projects led by inspirational researchers from across the UK and Colombia/USA. Together these projects will provide vital new knowledge about the relevance and benefits of a Froebelian approach within diverse contemporary contexts, - Nicola Kemp, Director of Insight and Impact”

Projects we’re funding in 2026

Movement Matters: Creative Movement as a Playful Early Years Intervention to Boost School Readiness

This project explores how shared movement and play help children connect with themselves and others. It will develop and evaluate a creative movement programme grounded in Froebelian principles. Learn more

A Froebelian Study of Relationships, Play and Early Mathematics in Early Childhood Teacher Preparation

This project explores how mathematical meaning emerges in early childhood through relationships among children, adults, play and materials. Learn more

‘Baby Mosaic’: Deepening Our Understandings of Quality Provision for 0‑2 Year Olds through Babies’ Experiences

This project explores the idea that quality should not only be measured but also understood through babies’ everyday experiences. Learn more

Keeping Connected: How Can Early Years Settings Build Lasting Relationships With Children Despite Staff Turnover?

This project explores this question in relation to early learning and childcare (ELC) settings in Scottish communities facing multiple deprivation. Learn more

Contemporary Children's Family Songs: Co-creating Froebelian Inspired Songs as Touchstones of Familiarity & Connection

This project will adopt a process of co-creation with young children, their families and the wider community alongside creative artists. Learn more

Relate‑Play: How Educator–Child Relationships Shape Planning, Persistence and Belonging in Open‑Ended Block Play

This project will test that idea in real settings by asking a practical question: what do adults do, moment by moment, that helps children use blocks to think, imagine, persist and belong? Learn more