Millions approved for urgent school repairs

Funding for schools will go towards repairs and additional pupil places

Millions of pounds have been approved to carry out "urgent" safety works at schools.

Kirklees Council approved a £5.4m school funding package, with most of the cash set to be used for repairs.

Projects will include a £264,000 rewiring scheme at Birkby Infant and Nursery School in Huddersfield, and roof works at Norristhorpe Junior and Infant School in Liversedge totalling £190,000.

Cash not used for repairs will be used to fund new school places, with 18 at New Mill infant and junior schools in Holmfirth, catering for pupils with complex communication and interaction needs.

Also among the repair projects planned are a £200,000 kitchen refurbishment at Wellhouse Junior and Infant School at Golcar, and £287,000 to cover improvements at Westborough High School in Dewsbury.

Schools to benefit from the funding have been selected depending on urgency, based on a council scoring system, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Each school scored between 28 and 30 - with 30 meaning that "a failure of the element concerned would have a major impact on the individual school from a health and safety and/or building closure and/or building damage perspective".

New Mill infant and junior schools in Holmfirth will see 18 new places funded

Councillor Graham Turner, cabinet member for finance and regeneration, said previously: "Through our strong relationships with schools, we will ensure the improvements are delivered to an excellent standard for current and future pupils.

"Our aim is to replace inefficient materials with modern systems and enhance the physical environment for all concerned.

"By investing in our children, we are investing in their futures."

Referencing the additional school places for students with complex needs, Councillor Jane Rylah, cabinet member for education, said it was a "major priority to support our more vulnerable learners and transform services for special educational needs and disabilities".

She said: "Additionally Resourced Provisions (ARP) have opened at other local schools, tackling inequality and creating the right conditions for children to fulfil their potential.

"ARPs are nurturing spaces specifically tailored to their pupils. We have already seen the difference they make to children, young people and families."

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