DfE SuDS in Schools grant funding is available

21st May 2026

Read time 2 min

About the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in schools Grant Scheme

The Department for Education (DfE) is looking to work with delivery providers to reduce the risk of surface water flooding in the school estate, these solutions may also reduce the strain on local drainage networks.

This is a match funded scheme and therefore, at the DfE’s discretion and where the scheme criteria allow, the DfE can grant fund up to 50% of the total project costs.

The full application guidance, details of the eligibility criteria, project objectives, Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s), how to apply, and supporting information can all be found on the DfE SuDS page.

What does the funding cover?

The DfE will consider grant funding contributions towards small, medium and large Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) projects as defined below:

Small schemes: a range of small, medium and large planters.
Medium schemes: a range of planters, small sized rain gardens and tree pits.
Large schemes: a range planters, tree pits, swales/detention basin and a range of medium to large rain gardens.

Rain Gardens

SuDS Planters

Roof downpipes

Who can apply?

You can apply for the SuDS in Schools grant funding if you are:

A Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA)
A Water Company
A Non-Profit Organisation
State Funded School (Nursery, Primary, Secondary and Alternative Provisions) in England.

Find out more

We have delivered multiple SuDS in School projects during the previous funding rounds. Contact us at: enquiries@meristemdesign.co.uk for a chat about your next school SuDS scheme!