Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) and Shropshire schools

Following the Department for Education’s publication of new guidance regarding reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in schools, council officers have been working closely with schools and the Department for Education (DfE) to understand whether RAAC was used in the construction of any school buildings between 1930 and 1990.

In March 2022, DfE contacted all Responsible Bodies regarding schools built between 1930 and 1990, asking them to complete a questionnaire. Responses to this questionnaire, along with archived construction plans and other details, are used to confirm whether RAAC is present. A small number of schools continue to have further investigative work to complete this process.

We have communicated to all Shropshire schools and their Responsible Bodies (the council, Academy trusts or Diocese) and will continue to work with schools and the DfE during this process.  Trusts and the dioceses are responsible for ensuring that RAAC is not present in academies and voluntary aided schools, and the council will provide support to these responsible bodies.

Based on current information, RAAC has not been found in any school buildings in Shropshire and there are no closures. The DfE have today published a list of schools known to be affected by RAAC (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/reinforced-autoclaved-aerated-concrete-raac-management-information). No Shropshire schools appear on this list.

We appreciate the concerns that are generated around this matter, given the high-profile national media coverage, but we would like to reassure parents and carers that schools in Shropshire remain safe.

We would therefore actively encourage parents and carers to ensure that children attend school as usual.