The School-Based Nursery (SBN) Capital Grant 2027 to 2030 can be used by local authorities to create or expand a school-based nursery in state-funded primary-phase schools, maintained nursery schools and on Best Start Family Hub sites. This is Phase 3 of the School-Based Nursery Capital Grant: Phases 1 and 2 were open to direct applications from schools but the approach has now changed so that local authorities can develop multi-year funding proposals for schools in their area.
Local authorities can apply for as much capital funding as needed to create or repurpose spaces for nursery provision.
Webinars are being held on 3 March 2026 and 5 March 2026 to enable local authorities to find out more about the programme and to ask questions. Joining details have not yet been published but local authorities interested in the programme are advised to refer to the website for updates.
Focus of fund/fund aims:
Capital funding for local authorities to deliver new or extended school-based nurseries
Application deadline:
30 September 2026
Fund description:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/school-based-nursery-capital-grant-2027-to-2030