Condition Improvement Fund (CIF)

At Roger Hannah we believe in getting to know the needs of the Academy and how to be school-specific in our bids. We will consult you to assess your site and make recommendations for the priority of works and advise on those which are likely to be successful. As we can advise you on the best projects to bid for and guide you on the best strategy for submission, we are able to provide you with the best chance of success.

The CIF guidelines are very clear about the amount and level of detail required and we completely understand that this may seem daunting to some Academies. We will guide you through this entire process and submit comprehensive bids, which will be carefully targeted to the ESFA guidelines, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Much of our bid writing process is done upfront and FREE OF CHARGE, giving a low-risk option to Academies who want to apply for funding, but do not have the time or technical knowledge to develop their own bids.

The Department for Education (DfE) publish an annual guidance document which is made available for all to review to enable successful bids to be submitted. The guidance changes year on year in certain areas, whilst the base structure has remained consistent for several years.

At Roger Hannah we ensure that all the latest guidance is considered to ensure a robust bid is submitted with the best possible chance of being a success.

It is essential that suitable preparation and time is allowed to consider the CIF bid and to plan to include detailed back up and evidence for the bid, with previous years dates remaining consistent as follows:

• 19 October: Launch of CIF (Information for applicants published and online application window opens)
• 12 noon, 7 December: Deadline for new applicants to register for an account.
• 12 noon, 14 December: Deadline for applicants to submit applications with all supporting documents.
• May (subject to change): Applicants notified of outcome.