CIF vs SRP
Decision aid for trusts choosing between the Condition Improvement Fund and the School Rebuilding Programme.
Side-by-side
| CIF | SRP | |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Academies, sixth-form colleges, VA schools | Nominated by DfE; condition-driven |
| Scope | Condition / repair | Full rebuild or major refurbishment |
| Ceiling | Per-project & trust caps | Standard scheme cost-per-place |
| Fees | 10% cap on works | Integrated in CF25 tender |
| Timeline | Annual round; ~12-18 months to delivery | 3-5 years from nomination to handover |
| Spec21 alignment | Encouraged on large packages | Mandatory[Spec21] |
When CIF wins
When the building fabric is sound, the M&E is reaching end-of-life, condition is grade B or better, and the trust has the capacity to manage discrete condition packages year on year.
When SRP wins
When multiple condition issues compound (asbestos, RAAC[RAAC], M&E end-of-life, fabric below Spec21), life-cycle cost over 30 years favours rebuild, and the school has the size to justify a standard design.
Running both
A multi-block site can sit one block in SRP rebuild and run CIF condition packages on retained blocks. Sequencing needs careful logistics to avoid double-counting fees and to protect occupancy.