Imagine sending your child to a school where the very walls could be a danger. That's the stark reality many parents in England faced last year when a crisis involving a faulty building material called Raac (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) forced dozens of schools to close. But here's where it gets controversial: while the government claims progress is being made, a new report from MPs reveals a deeper, more troubling issue – our schools are ageing, fragile, and in desperate need of more than just a quick fix.
The Raac crisis exposed a system where schools have been forced to patch and mend crumbling buildings for far too long. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson aptly calls the government's new 10-year plan to transform school infrastructure a "turning point." This plan aims to not only eradicate Raac from all schools by 2029 but also address the broader issue of deteriorating school buildings.
Raac, a cheaper alternative to standard concrete used extensively between the 1950s and 1990s, was never meant to last more than 30 years. Yet, decades later, its failure has disrupted learning, forced students into temporary marquees or modular buildings, and raised serious concerns about pupil safety. And this is the part most people miss: the impact goes beyond physical structures. The disruption caused by these closures has taken a toll on students' learning and wellbeing.
The government has allocated a substantial £2.4 billion for 2025/26 to improve school conditions, which is a step in the right direction. However, Helen Hayes, chair of the education committee, rightly points out that there are still gaps in the information available about the overall state of school buildings in England.
One of the most promising aspects of the 10-year plan is its focus on inclusivity. The government intends to ensure all secondary schools have an "inclusion base" – a dedicated space for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to receive support away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream classrooms. This is part of a broader effort to integrate SEND support more effectively into mainstream schools, a move that could be transformative for many students.
But here's a thought-provoking question: Is a 10-year plan enough to address decades of neglect? While the government's commitment is commendable, the scale of the problem is immense. Schools are not just buildings; they are the foundation of our children's future. Every child deserves to learn in a safe, secure, and purpose-built environment.
What do you think? Is the government doing enough to address the crisis in school infrastructure? Should more immediate action be taken, or is a long-term plan the right approach? Let’s start a conversation in the comments below – your voice matters in shaping the future of our schools.
