Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is set to announce a commitment today to remove deteriorating concrete from all schools and colleges before the upcoming election. Despite being two years since the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in schools throughout England, many children continue to study in affected structures.
A report by The Mirror in 2023 revealed that authorities had notified approximately 100 educational facilities to close buildings containing the hazardous material unless safety measures were implemented. Following three roof collapses attributed to the material in 2023, the government allocated funds for its removal, but the process is still underway.
In a statement featured in The Mirror, Phillipson emphasized the importance of equal opportunities for all students nationwide. She highlighted the concerning state of schools with crumbling concrete structures and subpar classrooms, attributing the situation to the previous government’s neglect in education. Phillipson outlined the Labour party’s commitment to rectifying these issues.
Phillipson vowed that by the end of the current parliamentary term, all schools and colleges in England not undergoing substantial reconstruction will be free of RAAC. Additionally, she ensured that every reconstruction project will be progressing to some extent.
She emphasized the need for a conducive learning environment, stating that every child should enter a school that inspires hope rather than disappointment. Phillipson described the plan as a step toward national revitalization, demonstrating the government’s dedication to providing students with classrooms they can take pride in.
Out of approximately 22,000 educational institutions in England, 237 were identified to have deteriorating concrete. The Department for Education confirmed that 62 schools and colleges have already eliminated RAAC from their premises.