What is the Condition Improvement Fund?
The condition improvement fund (CIF) is a funding scheme established and offered by the ESFA (Education and Skills Funding Agency) which runs via a bidding process, open to Academies and Multi-Academy Trusts.
Who is eligible for the funding?
CIF is available to:
Stand alone academies or a facility that is part of a Multi Academy Trust (with fewer than 5 academies or less than 3000 pupils total.)
Sixth Form Colleges
Non Diocesan, voluntary-aided schools
Free Schools
How is the funding achieved?
Funding is based on priority, there 3 main lists of priorities, listed below:
The core principle behind the funding is to support facilities who's facilities are not suitable for teaching and to ensure they are safe and in strong order to ensure the highest quality learning environment is achieved.
"From TFQ's initial design, to accurate pricing, through management of the projects to completion has been outstanding and we could not have hoped for a better outcome with projects from a £1,000,000 Sixth Form Centre, to a £20,000 play area for our primary school."
What should Trusts be thinking about?
Appointing an expert to advise for any applications is crucial. Prior planning and a strong application is critical to a successful bid. Academies and trusts are able to submit multiple bids each year and unless they are in brand new facilities, are advised to do so each funding year.
Bids should be starting to be compiled around September/October time.
Pictured:
Coombeshead Academy was the result of a successful CIF application with TFQ Architects.
How can TFQ help?
TFQ have successfully guided many local academies and trusts in the South West with varied scales of works, from remedial works, replacing tired roofs or windows, to large new facilities to accommodate the highest quality of learning.
We work closely with the staff (and students at times,) to consult and advise on the application and provide the necessary documentation such as initial feasibility studies, layouts, sketches and materials advice, as well as further consultation on sustainability and wider regulations.
Our experience is invaluable and takes a great deal of pressure away from the schools and trusts in making a successful bid.
Have a look at some of our previous projects here:
Comentarios