Helping people to learn more about heritage is at the centre of everything we do. Every one of our 16,600 projects has created the chance for someone, somewhere in the UK to learn from some aspect of our infinitely rich and varied heritage.

Our broad view of education includes activities for children, young people, families and adults. We believe that people learn best when they are interested and doing things that are engaging and fun. Thousands of children and their teachers have used heritage sites to bring to life their study of science, geography, maths, literacy and citizenship, while our funding has created more than 600 education posts, as well as around 300 new spaces for learning.

We have helped heritage organisations to provide practical and unusual forms of learning, from scouring brownfield sites for rare butterfly species to handling and identifying shards of pottery. Through HLF-funded projects children and adults have enjoyed powerful and memorable experiences, developed their skills and built their confidence. And by creating opportunities for people to explore the cultural backgrounds of their own and others’ communities, we encourage increased understanding and respect.

‘The Heritage Lottery Fund has made a vital contribution to preserving our past and making it accessible to children and learners of all ages.’
David Bell, HM Chief Inspector of Schools

Developing skills
In 2005 we launched a major initiative to tackle the huge shortage of skills in both the traditional crafts needed to conserve our heritage – from thatching and pargeting to dry stone walling and boat building – and the ‘people’ skills required to welcome visitors to heritage sites and work with communities. Our £6 million bursary scheme will encourage heritage organisations to work in partnership to create more training opportunities.