Association of Education Committees

The Association of Education Committees (AEC), established in 1940, serves as the collective voice for local education authorities across England and Wales, advocating for improvements in state-funded education, equitable resource distribution, and robust local democratic oversight. Rooted in values of cooperation, evidence-based policy influence, and equal opportunities for all children—especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds—its distinctive approach positions it as a trusted intermediary between central government and local authorities, fostering networks, negotiations, and systemic enhancements in public schooling.

The AEC funds collaborative initiatives advancing education in state schools and colleges, including school improvement pilots, curriculum development, teacher training, leadership networks, and policy research targeting pupils, staff, and communities in socially or economically challenged areas like urban, rural, and coastal regions. It prioritizes projects led by or partnering with local education authorities, city councils, county advisory services, or specialist bodies focused on child welfare, special needs, or post-16 transitions, emphasizing collective capacity-building and scalable innovations over individual efforts.

Eligibility is strictly invite-only, with no unsolicited applications accepted; funding targets medium-to-large organizations and consortia in England and Wales capable of systemic impact, showing preference for established entities rather than small grassroots groups. Typical grants range from £15,000 to £100,000 (often £15,000–£75,000 for multi-year projects), awarded adhoc via trustee and partnership meetings without public deadlines or portals. Exclusions include core costs, unrestricted support, capital expenditure, and activities outside state education or its geographic remit, setting the AEC apart as a niche collaborator for policy-driven educational equity.