DfE Update Round-Up: Key Developments for Academy Trusts

What schools and academy trusts need to know from the latest Department for Education updates

The Department for Education (DfE) has published a series of updates during May and June 2026 covering funding, free school meals, capital investment, academy development and learner support.

While many of the announcements are operational in nature, several contain important information for academy trusts, school leaders and finance teams as they plan for the 2026/27 academic year.

Below is a summary of the key developments.

Expansion of Free School Meals from September 2026

One of the most significant updates relates to the expansion of free school meals (FSM).

From the start of the 2026/27 academic year, all households receiving Universal Credit will become eligible for free school meals. Schools and academy trusts should review their processes and prepare for increased eligibility and potential changes to meal provision and funding arrangements.

The DfE has also published updated guidance covering free meals in further education institutions, including eligibility criteria and funding arrangements for the new academic year.

New School Opening Process Introduced

The DfE has published guidance on a revised process for establishing new schools.

The updated arrangements allow local authorities to invite proposals for both academies and maintained schools and, where appropriate, submit their own proposals. The guidance aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both proposers and decision-makers throughout the process.

For trusts considering growth opportunities or expansion into new geographical areas, this represents an important development to monitor.

Capital Funding and School Estate Improvements

Academy trusts should also note the publication of information regarding capital funding available to improve the condition of school buildings during 2026/27.

With many trusts continuing to manage ageing estates, energy efficiency projects and ongoing condition issues, understanding available funding opportunities will be an important part of estate planning and financial management.

Academies Chart of Accounts and Financial Reporting

The DfE has announced additional support for academy trusts through Q&A drop-in sessions covering the Academies Chart of Accounts and automation initiatives.

Finance teams may find these sessions particularly useful as reporting requirements continue to evolve and trusts seek opportunities to improve efficiency and financial controls.

Funding Claims and Learner Support Programmes

The latest updates also include reminders around funding claims for the Care to Learn scheme and the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund for vulnerable learners.

Eligible claims for the 2025/26 academic year must be submitted within the published deadlines, making it important that finance teams review any outstanding claims to ensure available funding is secured.

The DfE has also issued updated guidance relating to Individualised Learner Record (ILR) reporting requirements for 2025/26.

Apprenticeships and Skills Funding Updates

The May updates included information regarding oversight of apprenticeship units and changes affecting skills funding arrangements.

In addition, local authorities were advised of changes to the way Free Courses for Jobs funding is allocated, with eligible learners now funded directly through dedicated funding streams rather than through broader adult skills budgets.

These developments may be particularly relevant for trusts involved in post-16 education, apprenticeship provision or adult learning programmes.

Planning Ahead for 2026/27

Taken together, these updates reflect the DfE's continued focus on:

• Expanding pupil support programmes.

• Improving the condition of school estates.

• Strengthening financial reporting and accountability.

• Supporting learner progression and skills development.

• Providing greater clarity around academy growth and school place planning.
  

For academy trusts, the coming year will require careful planning around funding, compliance, estates management and operational delivery.

How SJC Chartered Accountants Can Help

At SJC Chartered Accountants, we work closely with academy trusts and educational organisations to help them navigate changing regulatory requirements, manage financial reporting obligations and plan effectively for future growth.

Whether you need support with budgeting, funding compliance, financial forecasting, internal controls or audit requirements, our specialist education team is here to help.

If you would like to discuss how these latest DfE updates may affect your academy trust, please get in touch with our team today.