A recent report from Members of Parliament has revealed that many school buildings across England remain in a state of disrepair, despite significant strides made to eliminate a hazardous type of concrete known as Raac (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete). The government has pledged that all schools will either be free from Raac or undergoing reconstruction by the conclusion of the current parliamentary term in 2029. However, the report indicates that the repercussions of the Raac crisis have adversely affected students’ educational experiences and overall wellbeing.
Government’s 10-Year Vision for Educational Facilities
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has unveiled a comprehensive 10-year strategy aimed at overhauling the nation’s school and college infrastructure. Describing this initiative as a pivotal moment, she stated, “For too long, schools and colleges have been forced to patch and mend buildings that have already deteriorated—spending their time worrying about leaking roofs instead of focusing on what matters most: giving every child the best possible education.”
The education committee’s findings primarily highlight the ongoing challenges posed by Raac, which was widely used in construction from the 1950s to the 1990s. Although it was a cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete, Raac has a significantly shorter lifespan, typically around 30 years. As schools prepared to welcome students for the new academic year, many were compelled to either partially or fully close their doors due to safety concerns surrounding buildings containing Raac.
Continuing Disruptions in Schools
The report underscores that several schools are still grappling with closures, necessitating the use of temporary structures such as marquees or modular classrooms for lessons and breaks. While the government has made commendable progress in addressing the Raac issue, the education committee has cautioned that there remains a lack of comprehensive information regarding the condition of the wider school estate in England.
In response to these challenges, the government has earmarked £2.4 billion for the 2025/26 financial year to enhance the structural integrity of school and college facilities. However, the National Audit Office has estimated that around 700,000 children are currently being educated in either unsafe or outdated buildings, a situation that raises significant concerns about student safety and learning environments.
Emphasising Inclusivity in Future Developments
The education committee’s report also advocates for the inclusion of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in the forthcoming renovations. As part of its long-term plan, the government intends for all secondary schools to incorporate an “inclusion base”—a dedicated space where students with SEND can receive the necessary support without the distractions of a busy classroom environment. This initiative aligns with a broader commitment to enhance SEND provisions in mainstream education settings, ahead of anticipated reforms in the upcoming schools white paper.
Why it Matters
The state of school infrastructure is crucial not only for ensuring the physical safety of students but also for fostering an environment conducive to effective learning. As the government embarks on this ambitious transformation plan, it is imperative that all students have access to safe, secure, and inclusive educational facilities. The ongoing Raac crisis serves as a stark reminder of the need for ongoing investment and attention to the condition of schools, as these environments significantly influence the educational outcomes and overall wellbeing of children across the nation.
