The Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) 2027-28 round is now open, with applications closing at 12 noon on 15 December 2026. This year’s guidance introduces changes to assessment weightings, makes costed options appraisals mandatory for every application and reinforces the need for compliant procurement and robust supporting evidence.

S2e will be attending several key events across the education sector this autumn, including the Suffolk Design Festival, the SAPCA National Play Conference, the CST National Conference and Education Estates® 2026. Here's where to find us and what we'll be discussing.

The DfE recently held a webinar on the school estate management standards annual return, covering its purpose, how the results will be used and what responsible bodies should be doing now to prepare. With the return opening on 22 September 2026, here are the key takeaways ahead of submission.