LEADING BY EXAMPLE
53. Capital investment in schools has increased
significantly in recent years. In 1996-97 it was £683 million
and is now running at some £3 billion for 2002-03 and is
due to rise to an annual rate of over £5 billion by 2005-06.
David Milliband MP, Schools Standards Minister recently announced
the DfES' building plans for providing 21st Century
school facilities for every secondary pupil in the next 10-15
years as part of its Building Schools for the Future initiative.[50]
This extensive programme of building and refurbishment provides
an opportunity to incorporate sustainability considerations.
54. The consideration of sustainability
in design is consistent with the requirements of the Framework
for Sustainable Development on the Government Estate,[51]
which applies to all departments, and can also reinforce ESD learning
through practical examples.
55. Local Education Authority (LEA) Asset
Management Plans include a Suitability Assessment which considers
the environmental conditions in schools. The Asset Management
Plans appraisal guidance for 2001-2002 sets a number of performance
standards relating to sustainability including a requirement to
consider "providing sustainable and energy-efficient buildings"
that are consistent with the Government's UK strategy for sustainable
development.[52]
56. DfES has recognised that "sustainability
of building development and construction" is likely to be
a significant driver for change in school building design.[53]
DfES' Classrooms of the Future initiative aims to challenge the
current thinking on school building design. Twelve local authorities
are developing pilot projects focusing on the creation of innovative
learning environments to inspire children to achieve more. The
lessons learned from these pilots will shape new design guidance.
57. DfES has developed a range of guidance
on building design in educational establishments. It now needs
to take an active role in promoting this guidance and monitoring
and evaluating the extent to which it is being adopted.
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