VAP feasibility funding (Voluntary Aided Programme)
The Voluntary Aided Programme follows the CIF model with a 10% governing-body contribution. The feasibility fee is recoverable post-award but funded upfront by the VA body or diocese.
Verdict: amber
VAP follows the CIF playbook: bid in, decision out, fee recoverable from award. Adds a 10% governing-body contribution to capital cost [source: VAP 2025-26 guidance, verified 2026-06-24].
Eligible bodies
Voluntary-aided schools (predominantly CofE and Roman Catholic), with bids submitted via the diocese for CofE and RC, direct for other VA bodies.
2026-27 timeline
Bid window aligns with CIF: opens autumn 2026, closes mid-December, decisions spring 2027.
VAP vs CIF
Same documentation expectations as CIF. Diocesan or governing-body 10% contribution is the headline difference; the diocese typically front-funds the feasibility from its capital reserve.