Updated: 12th September, 2025
Created: 9th September, 2025
Robert joined Barker in 2002 and is a Partner based in our Braintree office. A Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, he has over 20 years’ experience of all core building surveying services and provides strategic estates advice to key accounts in the education, commercial, ecclesiastical and public sectors.
An education specialist, he provides the following services: estates and energy strategy, asset management planning, project management and capital funding applications.
Robert works closely with clients to plan and implement energy efficiency and sustainability strategies to save money, reduce carbon emissions and meet ESG objectives.
As a RICS Certified Historic Buildings Professional he provides conservation consultancy for clients with listed and historic buildings.
Robert is an experienced APC Assessor and Chairman and is also an external examiner for Anglia Ruskin University
As a Partner Robert leads the Business Development and Marketing function at Barker, builds relationships with key sector bodies and helps steer the strategic growth of the company.
Email: rgould@barker-associates.co.uk
Tel: 01279 648057
The Department for Education (DfE) has announced the second phase of its School-Based Nursery (SBN) Capital Grant programme, with £45 million set aside to create or expand a further 300 nurseries opening from September 2026.
Phase 1 of the programme, launched last year, funded 300 new or expanded nurseries. With Phase 2 announced on the 4th of September 2025, schools have a new opportunity to access funding, but the rules have shifted, with a much sharper focus on supporting disadvantaged families and targeting areas of greatest need.
At Barker, we supported our clients with their applications in Phase 1 and achieved an incredible success rate.
Below we summarise the fund and outline the application process. See also our frequently asked questions guide.
Who Is Eligible For The Nursery Capital Grant?
Schools can bid for up to £150,000 in capital funding to create or expand a school-based nursery. Eligible applicants include:
State-funded primary schools with a reception class
Maintained nursery schools for expansions only
Who Is Not Eligible For The Funding?
Voluntary Aided Schools remain eligible for up to 100% of costs.
A key change from Phase 1 is that schools are no longer required to use surplus space. While Phase 1 focused on re-purposing empty classrooms, Phase 2 allows for new builds, extensions, or remodelling – provided schools can demonstrate strong value for money.
Applications must be submitted online with full supporting documentation. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The DfE has tightened the process. The new template application form makes eligibility an explicit gateway test. Schools must confirm that:
Failure on any of these criteria will result in automatic disqualification.
Phase 2 introduces a new scoring framework, with a much stronger emphasis on deprivation:
Educational approach and management are now pass/fail questions. Schools must demonstrate a credible plan for delivering high-quality EYFS provision and long-term sustainability, but these will not contribute to scoring unless they fail.
This marks a shift away from Phase 1, where the educational approach and governance contributed directly to scoring. The message is clear: projects in deprived areas will be prioritised.
With applications opening in September but requiring extensive preparation, schools and trusts should act urgently. Key steps include:
Phase 2 of the SBN programme is more flexible in delivery but tougher on evidence. The removal of the surplus space requirement opens up new opportunities, but the heavy weighting towards disadvantage means schools must make a strong case rooted in data and community need.
At Barker, we supported schools through successful Phase 1 applications and are already working with trusts and governing bodies to prepare for Phase 2. From strategic estate planning to technical cost assurance, stakeholder engagement, and bid writing, our integrated consultancy approach helps schools to maximise their chances of success.
With £45 million available but demand expected to be high, schools cannot afford to delay. The strongest applications will be those that combine robust evidence of need, clear alignment with disadvantaged priorities, and well-prepared technical and financial documentation.
Our team had an incredible success rate for bids in Phase 1. Contact us today to maximise your school’s chances in Phase 2.
Our experience and vision have shaped over 300 projects across sectors, from energy and funding to architecture and design, helping bring ideas to life.
