lb1.8 billion to keep schools in good shape

The government has stated that each school in England can access a share of just about £1.8 billion this year to keep their buildings within the most effective condition.

The annual allocations provided to maintain school buildings will increase by greater than a fifth to £1.8 billion this financial year, helping deliver the government’s commitment to build back better in the pandemic.

The first wave of the School Rebuilding Programme announced last year is also on track, with site inspections and detailed planning use the 50 schools involved meaning the first rebuild projects will begin from this autumn.

Local authorities, larger multi-academy trusts and Voluntary Aided school bodies, for example dioceses, have been allocated condition funding depending on the latest data on their estates. Smaller academy trusts and sixth form colleges schools have been able to submit bids towards the department for funding with the Condition Improvement Fund process, so people with essential maintenance needs do not lose out.

Schools Minister Baroness Berridge said: “I know teachers and heads are spending every hour of the morning thinking about how they may make sure the students in their schools recover from the outcome of the pandemic, and ensuring all children and staff remain safe following a welcome go back to face to face teaching. Alongside our ambitious rebuilding programme for that schools in the worst condition, this government is making sure every school has got the investment and financial support it must build back better for its students.”