Education Secretary Warns that More Schools Could be Affected
In a worrying development, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has revealed that hundreds more schools in the UK could be at risk due to unsafe concrete. As the new school year begins, surveyors are scrambling to check the safety of pupils in affected schools.
Impacted Schools Implement Temporary Measures
Several schools, including St Francis Catholic Primary School in Ascot, Berkshire, and St Thomas More school in Eltham, London, have already been impacted by the concrete crisis. In order to accommodate students, these schools have made provisions such as marquees and outdoor toilets, as well as using porta loos.
Funding Cuts Responsible for the Crisis?
A former chief at the Department for Education has claimed that Chancellor Rishi Sunak slashed funding for the repair of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) during his tenure. Last week, 156 schools were informed that their buildings contained the crumbling concrete, and 104 have either partially or completely closed as a result.
Pressure Mounts on Ministers to Address the Issue
With parliament back in session, MPs are exerting pressure on the government to tackle the scandal. The number of firms surveying buildings has been increased from two to eight in an effort to expedite the process.
Reassurance for Parents
Seeking to allay concerns of parents, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said that surveys have shown that the majority of schools are free from RAAC. However, where the dangerous material is found, immediate action will be taken to either provide temporary accommodation or make necessary repairs.
Funding Shortfall and Safety Concerns
A former boss at the Department for Education, Jonathan Slater, has accused the Prime Minister of failing to fully fund critical school rebuilding projects during his time as Chancellor. Slater revealed that he warned of the need to rebuild 300-400 schools annually, but funding was only allocated for 100, which was subsequently reduced to 50 by Rishi Sunak. Safety concerns were emphasized as Slater stressed the critical risk to life if the program was not adequately funded.
About Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC)
RAAC, commonly used in public buildings from the 1950s to the 1980s, has become a cause for concern due to its tendency to crumble and weaken structures. When used for load-bearing walls or roofs, entire buildings are at risk of collapsing without warning.
Ministers Criticized for Lack of Transparency
Ministers have faced criticism for their refusal to publish a full list of schools that have been instructed to fully or partially close. However, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has promised that a register will be made public this week, once schools have had the opportunity to inform parents.
Conclusion: Concrete Crisis Does Not Mean Return to School Lockdowns
In conclusion, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has emphasized that the concrete crisis should not be mistaken for a return to the "dark days" of school lockdowns. Efforts are underway to address the issue and ensure the safety of students.
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