Every child in England will soon be learning in classrooms free from Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, as the government sets out a clear timeline to eliminate the dangerous material from all schools and colleges.
The announcement by the Education Secretary marks a major milestone in efforts to modernise the school estate, with RAAC removal now confirmed for all affected sites ahead of the next general election – except those already scheduled for rebuilding under the School Rebuilding Programme.
RAAC has been identified in 237 schools and colleges across England. All are currently delivering full-time, face-to-face education, and more than 42,000 pupils are already learning in RAAC-free classrooms.
- 123 schools will be rebuilt through the SRP, with over half already underway
- 108 schools and colleges are receiving government grants for RAAC removal, delivered via local authorities or trusts
- 6 schools have alternative long-term arrangements for their buildings
The government has also confirmed that RAAC has been permanently removed from 62 schools and colleges, with more removals scheduled in the coming months.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, commented:
“We inherited a crumbling education estate, but I won’t let that be our legacy.
“After years of neglect we are giving every child a safe and high-quality classroom where they can focus on learning - by setting clear timelines for the permanent removal of RAAC from schools and colleges. It’s what parents expect, it’s what children deserve and it’s what we are delivering.
“It’s about more than just buildings - it’s about showing children that their education matters, their futures matter, and this government is determined to give them the best possible start in life.”
The RAAC removal programme is part of a wider £38 billion education capital investment over the next five years – the highest level since 2010 – as part of the government’s national renewal plan.
This investment aims to break down barriers to opportunity, rebuild pride in the education system, and ensure that every child learns in a safe, modern environment.
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