Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills pursuant to the White Paper Higher Standards, Better Schools for All, what she expects the buildings of schools closed due to failure will be used for.
Answer
It will be a local decision what use is made of the buildings of schools which close due to failure. Our expectation is that they will continue to be used for educational purposes where they are suitable. This could include replacement schools, additional schools for new providers, or resited schools. Local authorities may also consider other educational or community use where this will give value-for-money. Where a closed school is sold, we expect that the proceeds will be reinvested in other schools to improve educational provision and attainment in the area.