Thurrock Council is working with the government's Department for Education (DfE) to support academy trusts in the borough following the announcement of new guidance on reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in schools.
The Department for Education announced a policy shift on RAAC in schools yesterday (31 August 2023), meaning urgent action needs to be taken for any schools known to have RAAC. Thurrock Council had already contacted all schools in July 2023 to establish whether any had identified RAAC in any part of their school building. In addition, schools have responded to a questionnaire sent by the DfE.
Based on the responses provided by the schools governing body, the DfE commissioned specialist surveying companies to visit a number of schools to verify whether RAAC is present. Parents at 4 schools have been informed today about the issues affecting each school. Schools are working hard to mitigate any issues so that children can attend school next week.
Cllr Adam Carter, Cabinet Member for Education, said, "We are working with the Regional School's Office and academy schools and will support them to minimise any disruption."