Posted on Tuesday 11th February 2025
A total of £50 million will be spent on building new schools, and maintaining and improving existing ones in Staffordshire over the coming year.
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet will discuss plans that could see scores of primary and secondary schools benefit from maintenance and improvement projects.
Last year, schools up and down the county saw buildings refurbished and renewed, and four new primary schools were opened.
Added to this, some schools have been expanded to add places and improve their provision for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Schools include Walton Hall Academy in Stafford, Littleton Green Primary School near Cannock, and Rocklands School in Lichfield.
This year will see an investment of around £10 million to increase the number of places available and to improve existing SEND provision in the county.
Money will also be spent on helping schools reduce their carbon footprint and combat rising energy costs, including improving insulation and ventilation, and installation of energy-efficient lighting and air-source heat pumps wherever appropriate.
County Councillor Jonathan Price, Cabinet Member for Education including SEND said:
"Investing in our schools and creating an environment that fosters learning is essential for our children's success. This year, we are dedicating £50 million to Staffordshire schools for maintenance and improvements, with £10 million specifically allocated to enhancing existing facilities for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
“Additionally, we are committed to making our schools more energy-efficient, supporting the county council's goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions. This funding will also be used to create new school places and improve current provisions, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have access to quality education that helps them reach their full potential. We’re committed to providing the best possible education for every child, and our targeted investment in schools demonstrates this commitment.”