A practical guide for academies and trusts aiming for successful capital funding

For many academies and sixth-form colleges, the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) represents a vital opportunity to address critical building needs—whether it’s replacing old roofing, upgrading fire safety systems, or improving energy efficiency. But with limited funding available and increasing competition, securing a CIF grant requires more than a good cause. It demands strategy, precision, and deep understanding of what the Department for Education (DfE) expects.

At FSL Projects, we’ve helped education clients across the country successfully secure CIF funding and deliver compliant, well-managed capital works. In this guide, we break down how to navigate the CIF process and maximise your chance of success.

1. Start Early – and Strategically
One of the biggest mistakes academies make is leaving CIF planning too late. The process requires detailed evidence, costings, and stakeholder buy-in—none of which can be pulled together at the last minute.

What to do:

• Begin planning at least 4–6 months before the CIF window opens (typically October–December).

• Conduct a condition survey early to identify eligible projects.

• Prioritise high-need, high-impact schemes (e.g. roof replacement, structural integrity, safeguarding).

2. Understand What CIF Really Funds
CIF is not a catch-all funding source. The DfE prioritises urgent condition needs and health and safety risks—not aesthetic upgrades or nice-to-haves.

Fundable Examples:

• Roof or window replacements

• Fire safety upgrades

• Boiler or heating system failures

• Structural repairs

Less Competitive Projects:

• Internal reconfigurations

• General refurbishments without a condition driver

• Curriculum-led works (unless bundled with urgent repairs)

Tip: Tie your project clearly to DfE’s core funding priorities.

3. Gather Strong Supporting Evidence
A compelling CIF bid is backed by independent, professional evidence. Vague or unsubstantiated claims are often rejected.

Essential Evidence Includes:

• Up-to-date Condition Survey Reports from qualified surveyors

• Photographic evidence

• Letters of support from fire officers or health & safety advisors

• Energy audits or risk assessments

• Quotes and tenders showing robust cost plans

At FSL Projects, we work with academies to assemble and present this evidence in a clear, professional format that aligns with DfE expectations.

4. Highlight Value for Money and Deliverability
CIF bids are not just about need—they’re also judged on how effectively and efficiently the project can be delivered.

Your bid should show:

• Competitive quotes or tendered figures (not just estimates)

• A clear programme with realistic timelines

• A delivery team in place (e.g. project manager or employer’s agent)

• An understanding of project risks and how they’ll be mitigated

Bonus: Demonstrating environmental benefits, such as improved insulation or energy savings, can give your bid a competitive edge.

5. Seek Professional Support
Preparing and managing a CIF bid requires time, technical knowledge, and an understanding of the nuances within the DfE’s assessment criteria. Many successful bids are prepared or supported by professional consultants who understand what assessors look for.

How FSL Projects Can Help:

• Identify and prioritise eligible projects

• Prepare surveys and condition reports

• Provide accurate cost plans and delivery strategies

• Act as your Employer’s Agent or Project Manager post-approval

• Support project delivery, compliance, and reporting

Our CIF success rate and in-depth experience within the education sector means we can give your academy or trust the best possible chance of funding—and long-term project success.

In Summary
Winning a CIF bid is part preparation, part persuasion. You need to show genuine need, strong planning, and clear delivery capability. Start early, gather the right evidence, and work with trusted partners to maximise your funding outcomes.

Ready to Get Started?
FSL Projects is now booking CIF planning consultations for academies and MATs preparing for the next round. Whether you need support with bid writing, evidence collection, or full project delivery—we’re here to help.

Contact us today for a no-obligation CIF readiness check, or contact us to request our “CIF Success Checklist” to begin planning.  Email: [email protected]