Wed Sep 11 09:41:17 UTC 2024: ## Education Funding Agency to Merge with Department for Education

**London, UK -** The government has announced the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) will be closing in March 2025, with its functions being absorbed into the Department for Education (DfE). This move aims to streamline funding and regulation, improve accountability, and drive school improvement.

Since 2017, the ESFA has been responsible for distributing funding for education and skills programs, from early years to adult learning. Under the new structure, these responsibilities will be managed directly by the DfE, providing a single point of contact for education institutions seeking financial support.

A key element of this change is the creation of Regional Improvement Teams, which will begin operation in early 2025. These teams will work directly with struggling schools to address weaknesses and improve performance, further strengthening the government’s commitment to raising educational standards.

The move has been welcomed by both the DfE and ESFA leadership. Susan Acland-Hood, Permanent Secretary at the DfE, highlighted the opportunity for a “single, joined-up approach” to funding and regulation, while David Withey, Chief Executive of ESFA, expressed confidence that this change will enhance the service provided to schools, colleges, and training providers.

This merger aims to build on the ESFA’s achievements in delivering timely and accurate funding, supporting providers in financial difficulty, and ensuring taxpayer accountability. The DfE assures stakeholders that the ESFA’s expertise and service delivery will be preserved within the department.

Read More