I am delighted that four schools in my constituency have been selected for funding for essential maintenance projects from a central fund. After a rigorous application process £483 million has been allocated for 1,466 projects at 1,199 academies, sixth-form colleges and voluntary aided schools across the country.
The successful schools are Sowerby Academy (roof replacement), Thornton Dale and Rillington schools (boiler replacement) and at Norton school (boiler and heating upgrade).
These have been very difficult times for schools with significant extra costs because of the pandemic so this funding will help these schools pay for necessary improvements which they might not otherwise be able to afford. I know that the fund was heavily oversubscribed and that only projects which could demonstrate a real need have been successful. Applicants had to demonstrate strong governance and good financial management in order to be successful.
The priority for the fund is to address significant condition need to keep school buildings safe and in good working order. This includes funding projects to address health and safety issues, building compliance and poor building condition.
