Schools, childcare, further education colleges and other education settings in England can apply for a free framed portrait of King Charles III celebrate the new reign.
The portraits can be displayed in public buildings across the country as a tribute to the new sovereign. Hanging a portrait of the reigning monarch in public buildings is a long-standing British tradition.
King Charles III was crowned on 6 May 2023. The free portraits offer an exciting opportunity to commemorate the historic occasion, strengthen civic pride, and reflect the new era in our history.
The image of the King in full regalia will be released in December by Buckingham Palace and the scheme is funded by the government.
Who’s eligible?
Public authorities across England are able to apply for the free portrait of the King, including the following education settings:
- Maintained nurseries,
- Primary schools,
- Secondary schools,
- pupil referral units, including alternative provision and free schools,
- State funded special schools,
- Non-maintained special schools and
- Further education colleges.
How to apply for a free portrait
Eligible education settings can apply for a free portrait by filling out this form before 2 February 2024.
You’ll need to provide details including the public authority type and name.
Registrations take around 24 hours to be authorised, although some can take up to a week. If approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing your log in details.
You’ll need to log in to the ordering portal to place and complete your order. Once submitted, you will receive an email confirmation.
Portraits are expected to be delivered between February and April 2024.
Can public bodies not eligible claim a portrait?
Public bodies that aren’t eligible for a free portrait, or eligible bodies wanting additional portraits, will be able to buy extra. Further details will be provided in due course.
You can find answers to your specific questions on the FAQ website.
Resources for schools
There are a number of resources available to primary and secondary schools to help celebrate the King’s reign.
For primary schools:
- Lesson plan and presentation on the history of coronations with notes for teachers and without notes for teachers.
For secondary schools:
- Factsheet on the history of coronations.
- Worksheets on the history of coronations and map of Westminster Abbey.
