The school estate has faced mounting challenges, from underfunding and crumbling infrastructure to contractor shortages delaying vital projects. Recent announcements on capital funding and construction frameworks highlight both opportunities and ongoing hurdles for the sector. 

Earlier this year, the Low Carbon Skills Fund and Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (Salix Funding) were axed, leaving schools grappling with how to deliver costly decarbonisation projects to achieve Net Zero going forwards. One key issue with these schemes historically was the lack of skilled contractors, particularly for technologies like air source heat pumps, which was causing significant delays. We await news on how this funding will be replaced going forwards. 

The government has committed to rebuilding 500 schools under the Schools Rebuilding Programme, with £2.4 billion allocated annually for the next four years. 

However, progress has been slow. By June 2024, contracts were awarded for just 62 schools—hampered by high inflation and contractors unwilling to deliver specifications within budget constraints. 

The upcoming Construction Framework 2025 aims to address these issues, requiring contractors to deliver higher quality, better value, and increased social value, such as hiring apprentices. In addition the government’s broader 10-Year UK Infrastructure Plan, includes £725 billion in investment across various sectors has committed to a further 250 new schools. While the Treasury has pledged funding certainty through 2034-35, enabling an additional 250 schools to enter the rebuilding programme, the question remains: will these measures be enough to overcome the delays and challenges faced by schools? 

The focus on updated specifications, improved learning environments, and supporting local workforces is promising, but the success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation and the ability to attract skilled contractors to deliver on time and within budget. 

Against this backdrop of ambitious pledges, ongoing challenges, and mounting issues, it’s no surprise the DfE is raising concerns about the potential for more strain on an already fragile building programme.

If you’d like to explore any of the issues mentioned or are planning a capital build programme for your academy, I’d be happy to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me - Jo Burton for guidance or support tailored to your needs.