25 - Disappointment for schools

 

Dudley was originally listed for inclusion in Waves 7-9 of the programme, between 2010 to 2013, but was invited to apply to join the programme early.

 

To get on the fast track, Dudley was required to put forward a statement to demonstrate its readiness to take part in BSF.  This was prepared following many discussions with secondary headteachers, secondary schools, special schools and others during the last few years. 

 

The reasons for Dudley not being included at this time are not yet known.  Once this information is available the council will assess the position and move forward. 

 

Dudley Council remains fully committed to working in partnership with schools, colleges and other partners to improving its provision for the young people of the borough.  .

 

Councillor Liz Walker, cabinet member for children’s services, said:

 

“We, at Dudley Council, are extremely disappointed at this decision. However, I am convinced that our schools will rise above this setback.  We will continue to use every available means to improve the schools and the quality of education every Dudley young person deserves.”

 

 

“The lack of support for inclusion in the earlier wave is very disappointing.

 

“Our schools have made many improvements over the years and we are justifiably proud of their achievements. They do very well with the accommodation they have but major investment is needed to provide young people with the 21^st century facilities needed today.

 

“We will continue trying to secure the level of investment needed in Dudley that many other authorities are already seeing in the form of new schools.”

 

The government’s Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme was launched in 2004 with an aim for every secondary school child to be educated in a 21^st century environment within 15 years.

 

Dudley is due to receive an estimated £200m BSF funding, the biggest ever investment in Dudley borough schools.

 

The main aims of the council’s exciting proposals are to provide schools of sufficient size to meet local demand for places. They will have world class learning facilities designed to drive up educational attainment, promote personal development, health and safety.