In a recent update from the Department for Education, it has been confirmed that reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) posing a risk of collapse has been identified in an additional 40 schools and colleges. This brings the total number of affected educational institutions to 214 as of Monday.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan reassured the public, stating that 94% of students attending these schools and colleges are still receiving full-time face-to-face education, crediting the hard work of school leaders. However, she acknowledged that 12 settings have implemented “hybrid arrangements,” where some students engage in remote learning alongside in-person classes.

The National Education Union accused the government of discreetly releasing the latest figures, asserting that schools and colleges are far from resolving this issue. Labour’s shadow education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, criticised the continuous revelation of affected schools as “yet more evidence of chaos from a Tory government that has no grip on the extent of crumbling school buildings.”

Despite reassurances from Keegan, the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) highlighted challenges faced by many institutions, including delays in setting up temporary classrooms and uncertainty surrounding rebuilding plans. NAHT General Secretary Paul Whiteman emphasised the impact on communities, provision, and schools’ income as they repurpose various facilities to address the crisis.

The RAAC scandal emerged at the beginning of the school year, causing closures and delays. The government, at the time, indicated that hundreds more schools could be at risk, urging educational leaders to submit building surveys. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan faced criticism for her handling of the crisis and a controversial video where she complained about a lack of acknowledgment for the government’s efforts in addressing the issue.