The Department for Education (DfE) has released a comprehensive update detailing crucial information regarding funding, assurance, and resource management for various educational institutions. This latest communication, dated July 22, 2026, provides actionable guidance and essential information for academies, local authorities, and further education (FE) providers across England.
Key Updates for Further Education Providers
Further education institutions are being reminded of several important deadlines and new guidance publications. A final call has been issued for providers to upload their subcontracting standard evidence by Monday, August 31, 2026. This is a critical step in ensuring compliance and transparency in funding distribution.
In terms of new resources, the DfE has published guidance for the 2025 to 2026 qualification achievement rates (QAR). This guidance is vital for institutions to understand how their performance will be measured and reported.
Significant updates have also been made to financial planning resources. An updated college financial planning handbook is now available, offering revised frameworks and advice for managing institutional finances effectively. Furthermore, the apprenticeship landscape sees changes with the release of the apprenticeship funding rules for the 2026 to 2027 academic year. These rules are complemented by specific guidance on apprenticeship unit funding for the same period and a technical funding guide for apprenticeships effective from August 2026.
To support the growth of the apprenticeship program, the DfE has also released resources focused on apprenticeship workforce development. In a move to broaden access to skills training, eligibility for Skills Bootcamps has been extended to include young people, aiming to equip them with in-demand vocational skills.
Information for Academies
Academies are facing a key deadline for their financial forecasting. The budget forecast return form must be completed and submitted by Thursday, September 24, 2026. This return is essential for the DfE’s oversight of academy finances.
Preparations are also underway for the annual return
