A new round of funding has officially opened under the School-Based Nursery Capital Grant for 2027-2030. This marks Phase 3 of the programme, following the successful rollout of Phases 1 and 2, and presents a valuable opportunity for schools to expand or enhance their early years provision.
With increasing demand for nursery places and a continued focus on improving access to high-quality early education, this latest funding phase is expected to support a wide range of projects.
What is Phase 3 Funding For?
Phase 3 funding is aimed at helping schools create or improve nursery provision on-site. This phase shifts to projects up to £1M (new) or £500k (repurposing) to be operational by 2030. Local authorities must submit proposals by 30 September 2026.
This could include:
- Repurposing or remodelling existing space within the school
- Extending current buildings to increase capacity
- Developing new, purpose-built nursery facilities
Each approach has different cost, design and planning implications, so careful consideration is essential from the outset.
It is also important to consider planning requirements, building regulations, health and safety, and appropriate procurement routes early in the process.
How Lea Hough Can Help
Lea Hough Chartered Surveyors have extensive experience working within the education sector and supporting nursery development projects. Schools need to ensure their proposals that are aligned with Department for Education guidance, which Lea Hough can help to advise on and fully prepare.
Our team of School Building Consultants have worked with schools and early years providers across the North West to remodel existing spaces, deliver extensions, and develop new-build nursery facilities tailored to modern requirements. We can guide clients from initial feasibility through to project completion, ensuring proposals are practical, compliant and deliverable.
Contact Lea Hough
With Phase 3 now open, schools considering expanding or introducing nursery provision should act promptly. Early engagement with experienced consultants can make a significant difference in securing funding and delivering a successful project.
If you are exploring your options, now is the ideal time to start planning. Contact us today to arrange an initial consultation.
