Writing a winning TIP application

People step into teaching because they want to make a difference. We know that teachers have no shortage of innovative ideas – but time and financial constraints are all-too-common barriers in bringing these ideas to life.

For over 33 years, we’ve provided grants to educators across Victoria looking to do that ‘little bit extra’ for their students and school community. Whether it’s a student garden, wellness room or 3D printer – if it supports learning, TIP is here to help fund it.

With 793 projects funded, it’s safe to say that our judging panel have seen a few TIP applications in their time. We know how limited teachers’ time is, so have pulled together key tips to help you get your application right the first time.

Check your eligibility

TIP is open to all educators who are currently working in a Victorian preschool, primary school or secondary school. The school or preschool named on the application form will be the recipient of the funds.

Defining your initiative

• To be eligible for a grant, your initiative must be a new idea, program or method of teaching that supports student learning outcomes.

• Your initiative will fall under one of the following categories: general curriculum, diversity, sustainability or Indigenous and Torress Strait Island cultures.

• On the Recipients page, filter by category to see what previous grant recipients have been able to achieve with TIP.

Getting ready to apply

Before applying, it’s important to have a specific idea of where TIP funding will be allocated and what other support you are receiving, both financial and in-kind for your project.

Writing an application that stands out

Our judges look for initiatives that are innovative, collaborative and bold. A great application:

• Shows that you are meeting a need that requires additional effort within your school.

• Articulates the benefits for your students and school community.

• Includes outside the box thinking – the creativity of TIP applicants is what brings this program to life.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider:

• Asking school leaders (councillors, ambassadors, art, environment, sport) for their ideas to improve the school.

• Letting your students pitch their project.

• Collaborating with colleagues from other schools.

We believe that no teacher should have to spend their salary to provide learning opportunities for kids, which is why we’ve spent the last 33 years giving grants through TIP.