The Government has announced a comprehensive plan to address the presence of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in the nation’s school buildings, identifying 234 schools for retrofitting or rebuilding efforts due to the discovery of dangerous concrete panels and beams. Approximately 119 schools will undergo major reconstruction or refurbishment, primarily funded through the School Rebuilding Programme, while an additional 110 educational institutions will receive grant funding for smaller-scale RAAC removal projects.

This initiative follows a thorough audit of the school estate, revealing that 1% of schools are impacted by RAAC. The move aims to eliminate the use of RAAC from all schools in England, ensuring the safety and integrity of educational facilities. The funding allocation, announced on Thursday, earmarks the last tranche of schools for upgrades, with RAAC-affected schools taking precedence in this final round of awards.

Among the regions benefiting from this programme, Yorkshire and the Humber, West Midlands, South West, and South East are notable for having multiple institutions receiving either direct rebuilding funds or grants for RAAC removal. This includes primary, secondary, and special educational schools, as well as colleges, ensuring a wide-reaching effort to safeguard students and staff.

The Department for Education has emphasized the ongoing priority of the 10-year School Rebuilding Programme to target school buildings with the most urgent needs. This strategy ensures that schools at significant risk from RAAC will be at the forefront of receiving necessary works funding.

This latest announcement provides clarity and assurance to schools and colleges across England on the government’s commitment to removing RAAC, highlighting a dedicated approach to maintaining safe learning environments for all.