Being the Education Secretary, I have always emphasized the importance of my role in shaping the lives of young individuals and providing them with the promising futures they deserve.

I firmly believe that one’s background should not determine their future. The opportunities a person attains should not be restricted by their address or their family’s financial status. Every child, regardless of location or circumstances, should have equal access to opportunities in education.

Unfortunately, many schools today are facing infrastructure challenges, with deteriorating facilities that fail to convey a sense of value to the students. This situation is a result of past educational policies.

Addressing this issue falls under the responsibility of the Labour party. Therefore, I am outlining our comprehensive plan to rectify this situation.

By the conclusion of this parliamentary term, all schools and colleges in England that are not undergoing complete or substantial reconstruction will be free from hazardous concrete structures. Additionally, all rebuilding projects will be in progress for schools requiring renovation.

This initiative aims to ensure a safe learning environment for every child, with classrooms that are conducive to effective learning and demonstrate that every student is valued. Progress is already underway, with 62 schools having eliminated hazardous concrete from their facilities, benefiting over 42,000 children. Furthermore, over half of the schools requiring extensive renovation are already in the process of reconstruction.

Our focus is on fulfilling Labour’s vision for the children of our nation. This endeavor is not solely about physical infrastructure but also about enhancing the prospects of our youth.

Studies indicate that students in poorly maintained school buildings tend to have lower academic achievements. Dilapidated school structures not only hinder academic progress but also send negative messages to students even before their lessons begin.

Children may perceive that their safety and education are not prioritized, leading to feelings of undervaluation and lack of investment in their future. It is crucial, especially for disadvantaged students and those with special needs, that schools are welcoming environments where every child feels included.

After years of inadequate funding, our substantial £38 billion capital investment in education, the highest level since 2010, conveys to children that their education is valued, and the nation is committed to their future.

Earlier this year, we introduced a 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy to provide schools with unprecedented certainty. Funding for school maintenance will increase to nearly £3 billion annually until 2034-35.

In addition to the ongoing reconstruction of 500 schools, we are committed to rebuilding an additional 250 schools. These new structures will be designed to be sustainable, resilient to climate change, and offer greater access to natural surroundings.

It is essential to provide children with a high