Successful DfE Bids

'FOUR OUT OF FOUR' SUCCESSFUL DfE BIDS

The De Curci Trust is celebrating a spectacular 'clean sweep' after winning all four of its applications to the Department for Education’s (DfE) Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) 2026.  This major funding injection will drive forward vital campus upgrades across the Trust’s Solent Schools (Solent Infant and Solent Junior), securing a vibrant, safe, and modern environment for hundreds of local pupils.

The four successful bids will directly fund: a brand-new, energy-efficient roof replacement; comprehensive electrical rewiring and infrastructure work; crucial fire safety improvements; and related campus/environment enhancements.

This milestone highlights the Trust's exceptional estate management since forming in 2017.  Over the last nine years, the Trust has directed an incredible £6 million into transforming its three member schools, with 82% of this total grant-funded - mainly through competitive CIF awards.  This is in addition to the Trust securing Springfield School's rightful place within the DfE's School Rebuilding Programme, a huge investment project which is advancing at pace. 

Sara Spivey, CEO of The De Curci Trust, expressed her delight:

"We are absolutely thrilled.  Securing a 100% success rate on our CIF bids this year is a massive vote of confidence in our vision.  By securing £6 million over the years, we are proving that being part of a collaborative trust delivers tangible, bricks-and-mortar benefits to our pupils and the Portsmouth community without dipping into everyday classroom budgets.  I'd like to publicly thank Mr Waites, our CFOO, for his support and hard work in submitting these bids and managing the projects."

Work on the Solents Schools will commence over the summer, with careful planning underway to minimise disruption to the operations of the school.