The UK Department for Education (DfE) has informed the Education Select Committee that preliminary research indicates there are no widespread safety issues associated with school buildings constructed using system builds such as reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac). However, Dr Jonathan Dewsbury, the DfE”s director of education estates and net zero, acknowledged that the deterioration of school facilities is largely due to inadequate maintenance.
During a committee meeting, DfE minister Josh MacAlister stated, “There are no children in schools at the moment where we”re worried about safety,” while emphasizing that this remains a risk for the department and its capital projects. The government is investing in proactive measures to manage these concerns effectively.
In response to the Raac crisis, the DfE has allocated £5 million for research on the condition of school buildings, with results expected by spring 2026. Dr Dewsbury reported that initial findings show no systemic issues from the use of system builds, but highlight a need for maintenance improvements across the education estate.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced that all schools with Raac that are not slated for rebuilding should have the deteriorating concrete removed by the end of the current parliamentary session. Schools included in the Government”s School Rebuilding Programme are also expected to commence work before the session concludes.
So far, Raac has been permanently removed from 62 of the 237 schools and colleges where it has been identified. Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT school leaders” union, acknowledged the progress made but noted that significant challenges remain. He pointed out that issues extend beyond Raac, citing problems like leaking roofs and inadequate learning environments.
The government has committed £2.4 billion in 2025/26 to enhance the condition of the school and college estate. However, the National Audit Office previously indicated that the DfE estimated a need for £5.3 billion annually to maintain schools and address serious risks associated with building failures.
When questioned about the sufficiency of maintenance funding for schools, Mr. MacAlister mentioned that spending would increase to “about £3 billion” over the next decade. He further noted that overall capital expenditure is projected to exceed £8 billion in 2026/27, marking a significant investment. “The last time we came anywhere close to that level was 2008/09,” he stated, indicating a history of under-investment in capital projects that has compounded over time.
As the government prioritizes education alongside other vital infrastructure needs, Mr. MacAlister reiterated that maintaining school facilities remains a top priority for the administration.
