Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is set to announce a commitment to remove deteriorating concrete from all educational institutions before the upcoming election. Despite the discovery of hazardous reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in schools throughout England two years ago, many students are still being educated in affected buildings.

In 2023, it was disclosed that approximately 100 educational facilities were instructed to close affected structures immediately unless safety precautions were in place. Following three roof collapses in 2023 due to the material, the government allocated funds for its removal. However, the process of eliminating the problematic material from schools is ongoing.

Addressing the issue in the Mirror, Phillipson emphasized the importance of providing equal opportunities for all students across the country. She highlighted the deteriorating conditions of many schools, with unsafe concrete structures supported by steel props and run-down classrooms that undermine students’ value.

Phillipson outlined the Labour party’s commitment to rectifying the situation, stating that by the end of the current Parliament term, every school and college in England not undergoing substantial reconstruction will be free of RAAC. Additionally, projects for schools requiring rebuilding will be progressing at various stages.

The focus is on creating an environment where students are inspired by their surroundings rather than hindered by deteriorating infrastructure. The government’s aim is to demonstrate its commitment to national revitalization by providing students with classrooms they can take pride in.

Out of approximately 22,000 schools and colleges in England, 237 were found to have crumbling concrete. The Department for Education confirmed that 62 of these institutions have successfully removed RAAC from their premises.