Free school review must take account of views of local communities says NAHT as union calls for investment in school estate

Responding to this morning's written statement by education secretary Bridget Phillipson announcing a government review of planned free schools, Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders' union NAHT, said:

"We welcome this review. NAHT has long argued that new schools should only be built where there is a shortage of places or a clear local need. This is a sensible move. 

“It's important the review now happens quickly and diligently, taking account of the views of local communities and ensuring schools and families have certainty about future provision.

“We also share the concerns of the secretary of state about the shocking condition of many school buildings, with the previous government failing to invest anything like enough in their upkeep.

“The government must use the Budget and spring spending review to begin putting this right, starting with funding to repair or replace the oldest, most decrepit buildings, and those with known structural risks. The school rebuilding programme needs to be expanded and a long-term plan is required to restore all school buildings to a ‘satisfactory' or better condition as soon as possible.”