At Concertus, we are dedicated to supporting academies, sixth-form colleges, and schools in their journey to secure vital funding for building improvements through the Condition Improvement Funding (CIF) programme. Our Building Surveying team is here to provide expertise and guidance to ensure your institution can achieve its goals.

What is CIF?
Condition Improvement Funding (CIF) is a funding opportunity provided by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA). This initiative aims to assist academies and sixth form colleges with essential building enhancements or expansions, allowing educational institutions to provide safer and more effective learning environments.

Who Can Apply?
Eligibility for CIF includes:

• Stand-alone academies
• Schools within a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) with fewer than five schools or fewer than 3,000 pupils as of the Spring 2025 census
• Voluntary-Aided (VA) schools in a VA body or group with fewer than five schools or fewer than 3,000 pupils
• Sixth form colleges
• Schools with a signed academy order as of 1st September 2025 are expected to convert to a CIF-eligible responsible body by 1st April 2026

How We Can Help
With a proven track record of successfully securing funding through the CIF application process, our experienced and multi-disciplinary team is uniquely positioned to maximise your chances of success this year. We offer a complimentary service that includes:

• Conducting a technical appraisal of your requirements
• Crafting a comprehensive bid on your behalf

Our team is prepared to assist you in achieving the funding needed for a variety of critical projects, including:

• Roof and window replacements
• Boiler and heating system upgrades and replacements
• Increasing site safeguarding measures
• Asbestos removal
• Fire safety improvements
• Classroom expansions
• Kitchen upgrades
• Development of sports facilities

Key Dates + Information
Applications must be submitted by 12 noon on Tuesday 16th December 2025.

A significant update for the 2026-27 round is that applicants are now required to demonstrate a compliant procurement process when selecting a technical adviser. Schools will need to provide evidence of how advisers are chosen, ensuring they possess the necessary qualifications and are appointed through a clear and transparent process.

Next Steps
If you’re interested in preparing a CIF bid or would like an assessment of your specific requirements, we encourage you to contact us.

For those who may have been disappointed with their applications for the 25/26 funding round, we are ready to discuss opportunities to review your bid and assist you with re-submissions for the 26/27 financial year.

Additionally, we extend our support to Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) with more than five schools and over 3,000 pupils, where direct government funding is available for maintaining and improving their estates. By collaborating with the Trust, we aim to evaluate the condition of schools, support the development of annual maintenance programmes, and manage projects that are crucial for ensuring each school operates at full capacity.

Get in Touch
Let’s work together to ensure your institution can thrive. Contact the Concertus team today for personalised support in maximising your CIF bid potential. Find out more here.