Some 104 schools have been told to close buildings which are apparently prone to collapse following “new evidence” regarding a type of concrete.
The government has identified 156 schools with autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) materials that are in danger, while only 52 have put in mitigations against risks of collapse, including propping up ceilings.
School leaders are describing the current situation as a “scramble” to remediate the issues before the start of term next week.
Students affected by building closures will have to either work remotely or use temporary classrooms.
Julie McCulloch, the director of policy at the Association of School and College Leaders, said: “The fact that officials are rushing around days before the beginning of the new term making calls to schools about contingency plans in case buildings collapse is symptomatic of the government’s neglect of the school estate.
“The government needs to provide the necessary investment to make all school buildings safe and to replace those that are not fit for purpose.”
Steve McGregor, group managing director at DMA Group, a property maintenance specialist, reckoned cost cutting was to blame for the issues.
He said: “Compounded by the unprecedented cost-of-living and energy cost crisis these establishments are scrambling by cutting costs wherever possible, to the detriment of their buildings.
“Now it’s catching up. Purchasing lesser standard of parts will save money initially, but the increases in running, maintenance and replacement costs over the longer term will be a false economy.
“Buying the wrong or lesser quality kit will cost more, or even worse damage a premises, risk the health and wellness of its occupants, not to mention the reliability of the building.”
Two primary schools in Bradford – Crossflatts and Eldwick – are among those affected, with parts closed to pupils after the concrete was identified.
Munira Wilson, Liberal Democrat education spokeswoman, said “pupil safety is paramount but for this to come out just days before term starts is totally unacceptable”.