Academies at present must submit bids to the DfE for capital funding.
DFC provides academy trusts with capital funding to address their own priorities. DFC funding can be used for improvements to buildings and other facilities, including ICT, or capital repairs/refurbishment and minor works. Basic need funding is the money the DfE gives local authorities each year to help them fulfil their duty to make sure there are enough school places for children in their local area. This funding stream is accessible to all schools regardless of their status (VA, academy or free school) and is available to fund school expansions and new schools. The Archdiocese of Birmingham works with local authorities to develop catholic school place planning strategies across the diocesan area.