Devolved Formula Capital (DFC)

DFC: formula-allocated annual capital that goes directly to schools and academies for small condition works.

What DFC is used for

Small condition fixes that don't justify a CIF case (single window replacements, decoration following a leak, small roof repairs).
Internal refurbishment of teaching spaces.
ICT infrastructure upgrades (within capitalisation rules).
Energy-efficiency upgrades (LED lighting retrofits, BMS controls).
FF&E refresh.

Interaction with CIF and SCA

DFC, CIF[CIF] and SCA can all run on the same site for different work packages. Trusts often pool DFC across schools to fund one larger scheme each year.

2026-27 indicative rates

DFC rates are published annually in the DfE capital allocations announcement[DfE]. The 2026-27 rates per pupil follow the pattern of recent years (small uplift broadly tracking inflation).