The Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed that there are currently no children attending schools with safety concerns, as reported to Members of Parliament (MPs). During a session with the Education Select Committee, early findings from DfE research indicated that there are no widespread safety issues related to system-built structures, including reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac).
Dr Jonathan Dewsbury, the DfE”s director of education estates and net zero, stated that the research highlights deterioration in school buildings primarily due to insufficient maintenance. “The Government recognizes that this is a major challenge,” DfE minister Josh MacAlister informed the committee on Tuesday. “While we are not currently worried about safety in schools, it remains a risk for the department and our capital projects, prompting us to invest proactively in management,” he added.
In response to the Raac crisis, the DfE has allocated £5 million to investigate the condition of school buildings, with the research expected to conclude in spring 2026. Dr Dewsbury emphasized that initial findings reveal no systemic problems across the education estate associated with these building systems. However, data from published condition assessments indicate that a lack of maintenance is contributing to the overall decline in the educational infrastructure.
During the session, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced that all schools containing Raac that are not slated for reconstruction should have the deteriorating concrete removed by the end of this parliamentary term. Additionally, those scheduled for rebuilding under the Government”s School Rebuilding Programme are expected to begin by the same deadline.
As of now, 62 out of 237 identified schools and colleges with Raac have had the material permanently removed. Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT school leaders” union, acknowledged the progress made but pointed out that challenges remain. “The issues with the school estate extend beyond Raac. We continue to hear reports of leaking roofs, students learning in drafty portable cabins, and even school meals being served in corridors,” he remarked.
The Government has earmarked £2.4 billion for the 2025/26 period to enhance the condition of the school and college estate. Nevertheless, the National Audit Office previously indicated that the DfE had estimated a need for £5.3 billion annually to maintain school facilities and address the most critical risks of structural failure. When questioned about the adequacy of maintenance funding, Mr. MacAlister stated that spending is projected to increase to “about £3 billion” over the next decade. “Overall capital expenditure is expected to exceed £8 billion in 2026/27, marking a significant investment,” he noted, highlighting that such levels had not been seen since the 2008/09 fiscal year.
Reflecting on the historical context, he remarked, “Over the past 14 to 15 years, there have been extended periods of under-investment in capital, which ultimately leads to higher repair costs. We are therefore increasing capital expenditure and prioritizing schools alongside other essential infrastructure projects, as education remains a top priority for the Government.”
