The latest round of the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) for school building improvements is now open.

In this CIF round for 2024-25, there are two notable updates: an emphasis on the fact that CIF applications for RAAC mitigations and/or RAAC roof replacements are not necessary as they will receive separate funding, and new information regarding disqualification criteria for expansion projects.

CIF is a government initiative aimed at allocating funds to maintain and upgrade school, academy, and college buildings, ensuring they remain safe and fully functional. Emphasis is given to projects addressing critical needs, with the highest priority going to those tackling:

structural safety
fire protection systems
gas and electrical safety
emergency asbestos removal
replacing coal and oil-fired boilers with low carbon heating alternatives, particularly in cases where school closure is at risk.

Priority is then given to projects that ensure weather tightness of buildings and other projects for continuous heating and water supply.

The need and urgency for the work to be undertaken must be supported by strong evidence in the form of detailed technical reports and surveys.

CIF funding is highly over-subscribed with only projects demonstrating a compelling need and alignment with CIF priorities likely to succeed. Furthermore, with more schools entering SCA eligible trusts, the funding allocated to CIF is shrinking. Despite this, nearly one third of institutions available for the Condition Improvement Fund are in SCA condition bands H or below, meaning their schools estate is below average condition.

In the previous 2023-2024 round, £456 million was allocated to 1,033 projects across 859 academies, sixth-form colleges, and voluntary-aided schools.

Engaging qualified chartered surveyors, such as S2e, can significantly enhance your chances of securing the funding your school requires.

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New for CIF 2024-25

Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC)

CIF applications for RAAC mitigations and/or RAAC roof replacements are not required. The Department for Education (DfE) has committed to funding both immediate and long-term costs associated with RAAC mitigation and removal. This is separate from and additional to the CIF program.

Expansion project disqualification

Expansion projects aim to create additional school places or alleviate existing overcrowding. Projects increasing capacity by less than 10% for added places or where existing enrollment is less than 10% over capacity for overcrowding will be disqualified.

Who can apply?

As in previous years, schools can either attract direct School Condition Allocations (SCA, allocated to MATs and Voluntary Aided (VA) bodies with five or more schools and at least 3,000 pupils) or be eligible for CIF, but not both.

To be eligible to apply for CIF funding, you must have been one of the following at the start of September 2023:

Stand-alone academy
School in a multi-academy trust (MAT) with fewer than 5 schools or fewer than 3,000 pupils as counted in the Spring 2023 census or 2022/23 Individualised Learner Record (ILR)
Voluntary Aided (VA) school in a VA body or VA group with fewer than 5 schools or fewer than 3,000 pupils as counted in the Spring 2023 census or 2022/23 ILR
Sixth-form college
School with a signed academy order as of 1 September 2023 that the department expects will convert to a CIF-eligible responsible body by 1 April 2024.

How to Prepare a Winning Application

Navigating the CIF funding regulations can be complex, and the application process can seem daunting. For the best chance of success, seeking professional guidance is advisable. S2e can provide expert advice on all aspects of the application process. Explore our tips for preparing a strong CIF application here.

Key dates

Deadline for new applicants to register for an account: 12 noon, 7 December 2023
Deadline for all applicants to submit applications with all supporting documents: 12 noon, 14 December 2023
Applicants notified of outcome: May 2024 (subject to change)

While the majority of funds will be allocated to projects completing by March 31, 2024, larger projects may extend up to two years, but all projects must conclude by March 31, 2025.

Contact us today if you would like help applying on 0116 5070130 or email enquire@s2e.org.uk.