Accessing The Condition Improvement Fund (CIF)
What is CIF and who is eligible?
Taking the form of an annual bidding round, CIF is made available every year by the ESFA to address significant school condition needs. It can also be used to support a small proportion of expansion projects.
Highest priority is given to projects that are remedying serious health and safety issues, followed by projects that address issues of energy efficiency and sub-standard learning environments.
If you are a stand-alone academy or part of a MAT with less than 5 academies or less than 3,000 pupils, a sixth-form college or a non-diocesan voluntary-aided school, then you are eligible for CIF.
For more information about CIF please click here.
How do I apply for CIF funding?
Applications for CIF funding need to be made via the DfE CIF Portal, where an application form can be downloaded. The deadline for new applications is the end of November.
For more information about the types of project that qualify and how they are assessed click here.
Condition surveys and the use of third-party professionals
The use of professional third parties to help assess condition improvements and prepare CIF bids is actively encouraged by the DfE. Our directors each have 14 years experience with CIF/ACMF funding and personally write every bid, acting as a single point of contact.
The first step is to conduct a condition survey to assess the current condition of the building and prioritise improvements.
A condition survey is a visual inspection of your premises, carried out by a qualified chartered building surveyor, and provides objective information about the physical, mechanical & electrical condition of the buildings and facilities comprising the estate.
Condition surveys will usually cover a period of 3-5 years and help identify the scope and cost of works. They are key in helping you prioritise work, secure CIF funding, and preparing a comprehensive maintenance plan for the school.
To register for a free CIF Assessment please click on the button below or contact us directly on 0116 5070130 or email enquire@s2e.org.uk.
