The deadline of mid-December for CIF bids is fast approaching

The purpose of the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) is to enable eligible academies and sixth-form colleges to apply for capital funding to keep their buildings safe, support expansion and develop the optimum learning environment for their pupils.

In recent years CIF applications have been x4 oversubscribed making it more important than ever to ensure your bids are submitted in line with the latest guidance provided by ESFA.

Last year’s guidance outlined a hierarchy of need with the highest priority being given to statutory compliance, asbestos, fire safety, safeguarding and other areas where the health and safety of pupils, teachers and parents would be at risk.

• 60% - Need

• 25% - Vale for Money

• 15% - Planning

The ESFA also made it clear that they were seeking financial contributions as part of the bids, and from the resulting awards it is now clear that academies who had made a contribution as part of their bid enjoyed greater success rates.

For more information on last year’s award criteria please click here.

Up To Date Condition Surveys

Any academy considering a CIF submission this year will need to make sure they have conducted a condition survey to support any bid.

The guidance notes make it very clear that any fabric or key component that has a life cycle beyond 2 years is very unlikely to be funded this time around.

If you are an Academy Trust who is considering a CIF application and would like advice and support in preparing a successful bid please contact Surveyors to Education on 01530 276127 or email enquire@s2e.org.uk.