Flagship New Schools Not Enough to Transform Education - Williams

4.17.56pm GMT Thu 9th Aug 2007

Commenting on today's [Thursday] Education and Skills Select Committee report on Sustainable Schools, Liberal Democrat Schools Spokesperson, Stephen Williams MP said:

"It is right that no child should be educated in sub-standard buildings. But ministers must not fall into the trap of believing that flagship schools alone will transform educational standards. Pupils need inspiring teachers and a relevant curriculum as well.

"Investment in "hardware", school buildings, rather than "software", people and practices, is neglecting those things that make good schools more than the sum of their parts. Good teachers and good practice are the key elements in driving forward standards and attainment".

"The Building Schools for the Future programme comes with serious sustainability issues. Currently schools contribute 15% of public sector carbon emissions; it is essential that every new school is designed with its carbon footprint in mind.

"The Prime Minister's preference for PFI deals, which finance about £22.5 billion of BSF, also carries a significant future risk. The Government should ensure that if pupil numbers fall, local councils will not be left to shoulder the PFI costs."

Erratic and falling school rolls are a major concern in Bristol. Without careful long term planning Bristol could be burdened with a bill that takes a generation to settle.

ENDS