Visiting Beechview Primary Academy and The Highcrest Academy , I saw first-hand the staff’s dedication and their high expectations for their pupils. Children at these schools will benefit from a share of £470 million for projects in education and healthcare settings, set to fix crumbling roofs and remove dangerous asbestos – restoring pride in England’s classrooms and undoing years of dangerous Conservative neglect.
This funding forms part of the Labour government’s decision to invest £87.2 million in schools across the South East through the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF). It is part of Labour’s mission to fix the dire state of public services inherited from the Conservatives and deliver investment and reform through the Plan for Change, supporting children to get the best start in life.
A record £2.1 billion is being invested into the school estate this year – £300 million more than the previous year – as Labour forges on with delivering for the public by investing in our children, their futures and the future of this country.
Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said:
The defining image of the school estate under the previous government was children sitting under steel props to stop crumbling concrete falling on their heads. It simply isn’t good enough.
Parents expect their children to learn in a safe warm environment. It’s what children deserve, and it is what we are delivering.
This investment is about more than just buildings – it’s about showing children that their education matters, their futures matter, and this government is determined to give them the best possible start in life.
Glen Burke, Principal of The Highcrest Academy said:
This is absolutely fantastic news for all at The Highcrest Academy and couldn’t come at a better time. We will be replacing our old and defective boiler, which is currently only working by utilising parts stripped from our old defunct boiler.
In addition, we are looking forward to replacing some of the very old windows and sills that form part of the original building.
Both of these thermal improvements will greatly enhance the learning environment in these areas, whilst also reducing CO2 emissions and help us continue our ongoing commitment to becoming more environmentally sound.
With Labour’s Plan for Change, we’re not just fixing broken buildings—we’re restoring hope. After years of Tory neglect, we’re making sure every child has a safe school where they can thrive. With free breakfast clubs, cheaper uniform costs and safer schools, Labour is setting children up for the best start.