NAHT shares the concerns expressed across the educational spectrum about both the decision to end Building Schools for the Future and the way in which it was handled.
Whilst acknowledging that the programme had real problems, the fact remains that it did lead to significant improvement in the schools’ estate. However, while some schools now have state-of-the-art facilities, others continue to struggle to deliver education in entirely inadequate conditions.
We strongly advocate a replacement scheme focused on the repair and renovation of dilapidated and, in some cases, dangerous buildings, as soon as the comprehensive spending review permits.
In addition to outmoded buildings, NAHT recognises the impact on ICT provision. While we had reservations about inflexible managed service provision under BSF we also acknowledge that it gave many schools the opportunity to acquire an ICT infrastructure that was fit for purpose.
NAHT welcomes the Secretary of State’s announcement that there is to be a comprehensive review of all capital investment in schools and urges that the gap between levels of provision is addressed thoroughly.
NAHT shares the concerns expressed across the educational spectrum about the decision to discontinue the Building Schools for the Future programme.
