While the RAAC issue may not be as prominently featured in headlines as it was in the early part of last autumn, the ongoing ramifications are still impacting schools, with this likely to continue for a significant period. Here, we provide a summary of the most recent information regarding schools affected by RAAC and the ongoing efforts to address these concerns.
In the latest updates, experts caution that schools forced to evacuate students due to crumbling concrete may face an extended period in portable buildings and temporary classrooms. The eagerly awaited government information regarding when funding decisions for rebuilding programs will be made has faced ongoing delays. This lack of commitment from the government has intensified frustrations for education providers and students who, with no clear timelines for remedial work, may be left waiting for years for safer facilities.
As of December 2023, the latest government data reveals 231 schools and colleges impacted by RAAC, a number expected to rise according to Education Secretary Gillian Keegan. With the £35 million DfE contract awarded to portable building providers supplying temporary facilities to schools set to end on January 11th, concerns persist over the cost of and access to temporary classrooms.
Looking ahead, while the government has expressed its commitment to rebuilding programs, specific details of a long-term plan remain undisclosed. In November 2023, the Public Accounts Committee identified 100 yet-to-be-selected places for the government’s flagship 10-year School Rebuilding Programme, likely chosen due to RAAC issues. However, headteachers have expressed frustration over the lack of information, complicating future planning and leaving students in partially accessible schools long term.
The impact on students has drawn comparisons to the disruptions caused by COVID-19, especially in subjects reliant on specific facilities such as design and technology and science rooms. This has sparked widespread concerns about the potential negative impact on students scheduled to sit exams this year, leading to appeals for the DfE to consider implementing changes to exam conditions, akin to those during coronavirus lockdowns. Despite these appeals, the Department for Education maintains that making alterations for specific student groups is not feasible.
A DfE spokesperson said: “We have asked awarding organisations to, where possible, agree longer extensions for coursework and non-examined assessment so that schools have as much time as possible to complete this important part of pupils’ learning and qualifications.”
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