or many schools and academy trusts, the recently announced CIF funding results may have brought disappointment. With competition remaining high and evidence requirements becoming increasingly stringent, securing funding is more challenging than ever.

At the same time, the DfE has confirmed that the current CIF bidding model will be phased out by 2028 as part of the wider Education Estates Strategy – meaning there is now limited time remaining for schools to benefit from the existing funding framework before the new allocation-based system is introduced.

If your recent CIF application was unsuccessful, now is the time to review, regroup and prepare for the next round with the right support in place.

At Ashley Consultants, we support schools, academies and responsible bodies with strategic estate planning, condition surveys and CIF funding applications – helping clients maximise their chances of success in an increasingly competitive environment.

To discuss your next CIF application or wider estate funding strategy, please contact the Ashley team by calling 01273 044321 or email info@ashleyconsultants.co.uk