Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 31
31
Acknowledged
Funding constraints prevent rebuilding non-hazardous schools, despite better long-term value for money
Conclusion
We asked DfE about longer-term risks to value for money. It described a set of schools that pose no safety risks and can be maintained to a reasonable condition. However, when considering the work needed to keep these schools in good condition over a five- to ten- year timeframe, DfE said that rebuilding would clearly present better value. DfE explained that funding constraints mean such schools are unlikely to be prioritised for rebuilding.49
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the committee's observation and, while citing existing guidance and support for estate management, states it is considering how to further clarify roles and support responsible bodies to manage estates effectively for the long-term, with a target implementation date of February 2025.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
7.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: February 2025 7.2 The department expects responsible bodies to maintain their estates in a safe condition, compliant with relevant regulations, and to plan management of their assets to deliver value for money. The department already provides extensive guidance on effective and strategic estate management through its Good estate management for schools manual, which is regularly updated – and emphasises the need for strategic planning and prioritisation of investment over time to deliver value for money, as well as ensuring effective maintenance and checks, to minimise deterioration and issues with buildings. 7.3 In June 2023, the department published the Estate management competency framework. This sets out the skills and knowledge needed to manage school estates at all levels, from operational staff through to leadership. The Capital Advisers Programme (CAP) offers bespoke recommendations from experienced technical advisers and aims to help responsible bodies achieve safe, well-maintained buildings through effective practice and efficient use of funding. The department is expanding the number of trusts included in 2023-24 with potential scope to expand further in 2024-25. 7.4 The department’s funding methodology aims to aggregate available funding in into larger pots which can then be prioritised across groups of schools in the most efficient way, according to need. This may include concentrating funding on larger projects when required. The department’s rebuilding programmes also replace buildings in the worst condition, freeing up responsible bodies to use their capital funding to address wider priorities. 7.5 While existing guidance and programmes support strategic management of the estate, the department keeps its approach under review. The department recognises there is some variability in the approach taken by different responsible bodies. It is considering how it may further clarify their roles and support responsible bodies to manage their estates effectively for the long-term.