At Lea Hough Chartered Surveyors, we are proud to support schools in securing and delivering vital capital funding that ensures safe, sustainable, high-quality learning environments.
One recent example is our work with a High School, near Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, where we helped unlock circa £1.5 million of Strategic School Improvement Capital Budget (SSICB) funding and successfully deliver a complex programme of essential works.
What is SSICB Funding?
The Strategic School Improvement Capital Budget (SSICB) is a funding stream provided by the Department for Education (DfE), aimed at supporting schools in addressing significant condition issues of their buildings and raising educational standards. Despite its value, many schools and academy trusts are not fully aware of SSICB or how to access it.
Typically, SSICB funding is targeted at schools with serious condition needs that impact building safety or operation.
Accessing SSICB funding requires a robust application supported by clear evidence, technical assessments, and cost planning.
Our role
Our involvement with the School began several years ago during a key transitional period, as the school was moving from one Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) to another. As part of this process, Lea Hough was commissioned to undertake comprehensive due diligence condition surveys.
Through these surveys, we identified a range of significant building issues requiring urgent attention. We developed detailed budget cost estimates and worked closely with the school and its new MAT to prioritise works and build a strong case for funding.
Securing SSICB funding
Following our assessments, we supported the school in preparing and submitting a detailed SSICB funding application to the DfE. This included providing technical evidence of condition issues and preparing cost plans and project justifications. Our team liaised directly with the DfE throughout the application process.
The application was successful, securing approximately £1.5 million in funding to address critical condition needs across the site.
Once funding was approved, Lea Hough led the full delivery of the project, from specification through to completion. The works included:
- Re-roofing works: Replacement of both pitched and flat roof coverings
- Structural repairs: Remediation of defects within the concrete structure
- Electrical upgrades: Partial re-wiring to improve safety and compliance
- Mechanical improvements: Installation of a new boiler plant and central heating system
Although delivered under a single funding award, we strategically divided the scheme into four separate projects. Each project was independently specified, tendered, and administered.
This comprehensive approach ensured that the project was delivered efficiently, within budget, and to the highest standards.
Contact Lea Hough to discuss SSICB funding
At Lea Hough Chartered Surveyors, we are experienced in guiding schools and academy trusts through every stage of the SSICB process.
If your school or trust is facing significant condition challenges, we would be happy to discuss how we can support you in identifying funding opportunities and delivering successful outcomes. Contact us today.
