School-based Nursery Capital Grant 2027 to 2030
Information for local authorities about the School-based Nursery Capital Grant 2027 to 2030.
Applies to England
The School-based Nursery (SBN) programme aims to help more families access early years provision, including those in disadvantaged areas.
This is the third phase of the programme. It builds on the foundations of phase 1 and 2, and invites local authorities to develop multi-year funding proposals to deliver new and extended school-based nurseries between 2027 and 2030.
Eligibility
The 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.
To submit a funding proposal, a local authority must ensure their proposed SBN project(s) meet all the eligibility criteria detailed in the .
This guidance also explains how local authorities should develop and submit a funding proposal, and how proposals will be assessed and funding awarded.
You should also refer to the Establishing school-based nursery provision, which details the requirements and recommendations for expanding or opening new school-based nursery provision. This will be updated in spring 2026.
How to apply
Make sure that you read the guidance carefully.
We have provided a to help local authorities gather the necessary information ahead of applying for funding.
Local authorities must submit their funding proposal by 5pm on 30 September 2026.
The route for submitting funding proposals will be confirmed through an update to the grant guidance by spring 2026.
Proposals submitted through other routes or after this deadline will not be accepted.
Contact us
We strongly encourage you to sign-up to receive updates of this page to stay informed of any new information.
Find out the most appropriate way to get in touch by referring to the ‘Queries’ section in the grant guidance. This will depend on your organisation and the nature of your enquiry.
Send any queries or requests for clarification by 16 September 2026 to guarantee a response from the Department for Education before the final submission date.