Building Schools for the Future
Building Schools for the Future - what's it all about?
In the last edition of BrightSide, the council announced plans to invest more than £300m in its schools during the coming years. Read on to find out more about more about the projects and how you can get involved.
What's happening in secondary schools?
As part of Building Schools for the Future (BSF) secondary schools could benefit from around £250m of the total investment. The aim is to achieve a big leap rather than a small step in improving learning and achievement for every child and young person. BSF investment will provide new or refurbished buildings designed not only for the needs of this decade and the next, but with sustainability and adaptability in mind too. The schools will also get state of the art information technology to help achieve ambitious academic targets.
When will it all happen?
Summer 2008
The council will complete its Strategy for Change to set out how it can deliver its education vision for the future. Schools will also develop plans for what BSF will mean to them.
By Spring 2009
The business case for the project will be completed. This will include worked-up details on the practical and financial implications.
Summer 2009 to Summer 2010
Prospective bidders design solutions to deliver the BSF investment in Wandsworth.
From Autumn 2010
A programme of construction work could begin at the schools.
What's happening in primary schools?
Plans are being developed for investment in primary schools, through the Government's Primary Capital Programme. The programme aims to renew at least half of all school buildings over a 15-year period and put children's services in the reach of every family. Key local targets will include:
- Ensuring sufficient places for children as a result of population change.
- Investing in buildings where this will help improve standards.
- Establish a permanent location for a primary special school and pupil referral unit.
- Improve the condition and ICT within schools.
- Joining up with other services, such as Children's Centres, child care provision and access to PE & Sport facilities.
Plans for the primary school investment will be published in summer 2008. How can I get involved and find out more?
There will be a number of opportunities throughout the development of the project for everyone to have their say.
During the next few months the council will be consulting on its proposals for both primary and secondary schools before submitting plans to the Government. Details of all consultation and the latest news can be found on the BSF website at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/bsf Alternatively contact the BSF team at bsf@wandsworth.gov.uk.