This morning, it was announced that three funding initiatives have been launched to support schools and colleges in providing spaces for teaching and learning.
Post-16 Capacity Fund
The Post-16 Capacity Fund has returned, with eligible applicants being requested to apply via the Jaggaer DfE eTendering portal from now until 17 April 2026. Eligible applicants include FE colleges, standalone sixth form colleges, and 16-19 academies that are not attached to schools, with exceptions for designated institutions.
There are two categories which applicants will fall under: non-devolved and devolved authorities. Non-devolved authorities will be able to apply via the DfE with little to no change from the last time the Post-16 Capacity Fund was available. However, if you are an applicant in a devolved area, which is roughly half of the country, you will have to go through local government, where the criteria may have changed.
Funding grants start from £250,000 and can go as high as £4,000,000 and can be used for capital works that create new teaching or training spaces, such as building new facilities, upgrading existing estates, or leasing temporary accommodation.
The portals are live and ready to accept applications, but you must register for an account before 27 February 2026, which will then let you access the application form.
It is advised that you start sharing your plans with the authorities as soon as possible.
If you are confused or concerned about your application, our education specialists are on hand to support you in the application process, right through to condition surveys and project-managing the capital works.
Construction Skills Capacity Fund
A new fund to expand specific training capacity has been launched to support the government’s commitment to invest in construction skills and to find an extra 60,000 skilled construction workers during this parliament.
Announced by the Chancellor in the Spring Update last year, the Construction Skills Capacity Fund is only available to providers with sites in un-devolved areas.
We applaud the steps taken to improve the construction skills gap and urge them to go further.
Capital Funding for T Level Priority Routes
£8.8m has also being launched as a one-off grant for T Level providers for the first time, ready for the 2026/27 academic year.
This funding can be used to deliver the following six routes:
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Construction
- Digital
- Health and Science
- Creative & Design
- Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care
These routes require more expensive equipment and yet are expected to be in high demand in the future, hence this funding being announced.
Help with your application
It is easy to be overwhelmed with the choices and options that are on offer across both public and private sectors. We have been providing our support and expertise to schools and Trusts across the country for years, receiving over £200m in funding for our clients.
Please call 0808 175 9289 or complete the form below to arrange a free consultation and discuss which funding options are right for your school.
