Doctoral research plays a vital role in advancing educational knowledge and strengthening professional practice. Through our doctoral funding contribution, we support researchers whose work engages with creative, holistic and regenerative approaches to education — helping to sustain rigorous inquiry that can inform teaching, learning and leadership across diverse educational contexts.
Designed to support the continuation of doctoral study, this funding reflects our commitment to the long-term development of educational research and to building a resilient, practice-informed evidence base for the sector. We recognise that sustained research is essential if education is to evolve in response to contemporary challenges, and we actively invest in projects that demonstrate clarity, quality and meaningful contribution to the field.
By backing doctoral researchers, we seek not only to advance scholarship but to nurture a connected ecosystem of practitioners, academics and organisations working towards a more inclusive and sustainable educational future.
An annual contribution supporting doctoral research in creative, holistic and regenerative education
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Waldorf Learning Foundation offers an annual contribution towards doctoral fees for researchers whose work supports the development of creative, holistic and regenerative education. The funding is designed to support the continuation of doctoral research and strengthen the long-term knowledge base of educational practice.
Available to doctoral researchers in the second, third or fourth year of study at UK universities listed on the Office for Students register, the award includes a £2,500 fee contribution alongside a £250 travel allowance.
Doctoral research plays a central role in the development of knowledge across all sectors. Within education, it has particular importance in supporting reflective practice, pedagogical development and the professional autonomy of educators. Sustained research is essential to ensuring that educational approaches continue to evolve in response to contemporary challenges faced by educators, learners and communities.
The doctoral funding contribution reflects our commitment to the long-term development and sustainability of educational research.
Part-time and full-time doctoral students whose research proposals have been formally accepted and who are in the second, third or fourth year of their studies
Doctoral research undertaken at any UK university listed on the Office for Students register
Candidates from any discipline, where a clear and relevant educational impact can be demonstrated
Applications are made by email and are designed to be clear and proportionate, recognising the time pressures of doctoral research.
Steps:
Prepare an up-to-date CV, including papers and publications, and a letter of application
Include copies of ethical approval, project approval and university registration
Outline any current research funding and your expected completion timeline
Email all documents to [email protected]
Key dates
Applications close: 30 April
Awards announced: September
Alignment with creative, holistic and regenerative education
Clarity, quality and potential contribution of the research
Awards are made at the discretion of the charity, and there is no obligation to make an award in any given year
Click ‘Apply now’ to begin your application email.
For a comprehensive overview of the doctoral funding contribution, including eligibility, assessment criteria and application guidance, download the brochure below. The brochure provides clarity while supporting you to determine whether the award aligns with your research and academic pathway.
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Doctoral funding recipients are expected to conduct their research in line with the ethical standards of their host university, the British Educational Research Association and United Kingdom law, and to acknowledge the support of Waldorf Learning Foundation in any publications or outputs arising from the research.
For our full Doctoral Funding terms & conditions, head to the terms and conditions page