The Department for Education has published a new report; “Education Estates Strategy: A Decade of National Renewal.”
This document sets out the government’s 10-year vision for improving school and college buildings across England, following a 2024 review of capital funding.
There is much to welcome and also much still to be clarified. Here we look at some of the key aspects of the report and what they mean for schools.
CIF to be phased out
One of the most immediate changes is confirmation that the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF), in its current format, will be phased out by 2028.
In its place, a new funding stream that removes some of the administrative burden associated with annual competitive bidding is expected.
For many academies and smaller trusts, this will be welcome news. The CIF has historically been a time consuming process with no certainty of success.
However, as full details have yet to emerge, schools must continue to plan carefully for the remaining bidding rounds while also preparing for a different funding landscape.
Renewal & Retrofit scheme
The launch of a new £710m Renewal & Retrofit programme has been announced. This programme, which may (or may not) replace CIF, is aimed at projects too complex for maintenance but not needing rebuild. The scheme is scheduled to launch in April 2026, reaching national coverage by 2029.
Data and Digital
From autumn 2027, Responsible Bodies will be expected to collect and maintain estate data in line with nationally defined standards, using digital tools to support consistency and transparency.
This signals a significant shift and indicates that funding decisions are likely to rely increasingly on verified, standardised estate data rather than narrative submissions.
For some trusts and local authorities, this will require an overhaul in how estate information is managed.
Focus on GEMS
The strategy places significant emphasis on adherence to the DfE’s “Good Estate Management for Schools” (GEMS) principles. From autumn 2026, Responsible Bodies will be required to submit annual returns confirming how they meet the standards.
Organisations already meeting structured estate management processes will be well-placed for the change. For others, it may require a greater emphasis on this aspect of planning and budgeting, with clearer, more frequent reporting to boards and trustees.
Integration of SEND, early years and community infrastructure
The strategy also sets expectations around SEND provision, including the development of dedicated inclusion bases within secondary schools.
Schools may need to consider space planning, refurbishment or adaptation projects to meet these evolving requirements.
Renewal vs rebuild
The School Rebuilding Programme remains a key component of the DfE’s plans, and new school construction will continue where justified.
However, only a relatively small proportion of schools nationally will benefit from full rebuilding.
In our view, and in line with broader sustainability principles, greater value often lies in targeted repair, renewal and thoughtful development of existing buildings. Extending asset life, improving performance and modernising facilities can deliver substantial impact without wholesale reconstruction.
Flexibility in procurement approach remains important to ensure schools can access the right expertise for their specific needs.
What should schools be doing now?
The Education Estates Strategy represents more than a funding announcement. It sets the tone of expectations for schools, with a clear focus on long-term capital planning, stronger governance and asset management.
As ever, the effectiveness of the strategy will depend on implementation. Many operational details remain to be clarified over the next three years.
While awaiting further guidance, schools, trusts and local authorities should consider:
- Reviewing estate management policies against GEMS principles
- Ensuring condition data is current and reliable
- Strengthening lifecycle planning and capital forecasting
- Preparing for digital data reporting requirements
- Assessing eligibility for rebuilding or major renewal programmes
How Lea Hough can help
At Lea Hough Chartered Surveyors, we work closely with Responsible Bodies to provide:
- Comprehensive condition surveys
- Strategic estate planning
- Lifecycle modelling and cost forecasting
- Governance reporting support
- Advice on capital funding and rebuilding eligibility
- Procurement guidance tailored to your organisation
If you would like to discuss how the new Education Estates Strategy may affect your school, our education team would be pleased to assist.
