UK government allocates £2.4 billion for school and college buildings

The UK government has announced that £2.4 billion has been allocated for the 2025/26 financial year to improve the condition of school and college buildings in England. The decision comes amid growing concerns in recent years about the state of educational infrastructure.

The funding will be directed toward renovating ageing facilities, addressing safety risks, and upgrading buildings that have not undergone major repairs for many years. One of the key priorities remains tackling issues related to Raac (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete), a material widely used between the 1950s and 1990s whose limited lifespan has raised serious safety concerns. The discovery of Raac in recent years led to partial or full closures of dozens of school buildings.

According to the government, the £2.4 billion investment will cover not only urgent safety measures but also long-term reconstruction and modernization projects. The aim is to move away from temporary fixes and implement sustainable, lasting solutions for the education estate.

Officials say the funding will help address problems such as leaking roofs, structural weaknesses, and outdated electrical and heating systems. Plans also include creating more energy-efficient buildings that meet modern construction standards.

The government emphasizes that the objective is not only to improve the physical condition of school buildings but also to ensure that students can learn in safe and stable environments. Officials argue that high-quality infrastructure has a direct impact on students’ academic performance and overall well-being.