With applications and results for the 2026/27 Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) round now complete and this summer’s projects about to get underway, many schools will understandably be focused on delivering their funded improvement works.
However, for schools that were unsuccessful this year, or those with additional condition projects in sight, now is the ideal time to start preparing for the next bidding round.
In fact, now has confirmed that the current CIF programme will be replaced by a new maintenance funding model by autumn 2028, early preparation has never been more important.
The anticipated bidding rounds (expected to open in autumn 2026 and 2027) are expected to be the final opportunities for eligible schools to secure funding through the existing competitive application process.
For eligible academies, small multi-academy trusts, voluntary aided schools and sixth form colleges, there is a clear incentive to act now rather than wait.
If your school has known condition issues, the next bidding round could represent one of your last chances to access funding through the familiar CIF route.
Why Start Now?
Successful CIF applications are rarely prepared in just a few weeks. The strongest bids are built on a solid foundation of technical evidence, careful planning and a clear understanding of a school’s most pressing condition priorities. By starting preparations now, schools have time to identify the projects that need funding most urgently, commission any additional condition surveys or technical reports, develop accurate project scopes and budgets, and gather the evidence needed to demonstrate the condition, compliance or safeguarding issues affecting their estate. Taking a proactive approach also allows schools to review their wider estate strategy and ensure they are putting forward the strongest possible application when the next bidding round opens.
How Lea Hough Can Help
Lea Hough Chartered Surveyors has many years of experience helping schools across Lancashire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Warrington and Bolton secure CIF funding for essential building improvement projects.
Our School Building Consultants provide support throughout the process, including:
- Identifying suitable projects
- Condition surveys across single or multiple sites
- Preparing CIF applications
- Cost planning and project scoping
- Project management once funding has been secured
By beginning discussions now, schools can take a strategic approach to prioritising projects and maximise their chances of success in what are expected to be the final CIF bidding rounds.
Contact Lea Hough’s School Building Consultants
If you’d like to discuss potential projects or begin preparing for the next CIF round, Lea Hough’s experienced School Building Consultants are ready to help you put your strongest possible application forward before the current funding programme comes to an end. Get in touch today to arrange a free of charge meeting.
