The announcement sends a strong message that Government is committed to consistent and long-term support for a sector that has been under-funded in recent years, particularly in the face of dealing with RAAC rebuilding and refurbishment. Total school capital spending will now increase from £6.8bn in 2025-26 to £7.7bn for 2029-30. Investment in school and college maintenance will rise to almost £3billion annually for the next 10 years – a near 50% increase. Schools’ maintenance funding for 2025-26 rises from £1.8bn to £2.1bn, and will rise to £2.3bn by 2029-30. The Condition Improvement Fund(CIF) for 2025-26 rises from £424m to £470m. And the School Rebuilding Programme is extended to at least 2034-35 with total funding of around £20bn. Within this, £2.4bn will be spent annually over the next four years–up from £1.4bn currently. The consultancy Stratus9 Consulting hailed the increased funding as “a real opportunity for Trusts to plan confidently and act decisively. With budgets increasing and long-term investment secured, now is the right time to review estate priorities, ensure strategic documentation is in place, and prepare for upcoming funding rounds. “At a time when schools face increasing challenges from rising pupil numbers to ageing infrastructure and the urgent need for safer, more energy-efficient environments, this renewed investment offers a vital opportunity for Trusts and school leaders to take proactive steps in managing their estates.”

DavidHarris, CEO at Premier Modular, also welcomed the long-term commitment to the sector, and linked it to the recent launch of the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) which aims to accelerate vital national infrastructure construction projects by addressing key challenges, such as long delivery lead times and inefficient processes. “It’s a welcome step in the right direction from the Government and could vastly transform the delivery of education projects in particular, ensuring teaching facilities are built and maintained much more efficiently and effectively. However, the success of NISTA’s involvement hinges on the availability and accuracy of existing industry knowledge and early involvement of the construction industry in project planning will ensure that infrastructure plans are achievable, deliverable and sustainable. ”Harris added that off site manufacturing and modular building are proven sustainable construction methods that could help ensure all new school buildings contribute meaningfully to the UK’s net zero commitments.