The approval (by the DCSF)gives clear recognition to Barking and Dagenham's strong educational vision for the future. The programme will build on the existing improvements to standards already being made and deliver increased benefits for students, families and communities for generations to come.
The government has formerly approved the Council's Outline Business Case. This sets out plans for each of the Barking and Dagenham secondary schools remodelled buildings and the ICT equipment they will use. This is the moment the project has been waiting for and secures £270m funding for schools in the borough.
Cllr Rocky Gill, cabinet member for education and children's wellbeing, said: "The Building Schools for the Future project will have a huge impact on our borough. The project will transform schools offering additional or dual use facilities, such as sports halls, libraries, nurseries and ICT resources. It will reposition schools at the heart of the community.
"We are committed to raising educational standards in the borough and by transforming schools it will improve standards and the life chances of our children and young people and reduce the number of young people not in education, employment or training."
Roger Luxton, corporate director for children's services said: "This is great news for the BSF project. We are absolutely delighted that our plan to transform teaching and learning in Barking and Dagenham has been approved.
"It is the culmination of relentless hard work, commitment, and effort from councillors, officers and schools in striving to make this vision a reality. BSF promises to provide excellent education to give all children the best possible start in life by way of raising teaching standards and pupil achievement in our secondary schools."
Tim Byles, Chief Executive of Partnerships for Schools - the government agency responsible for delivering the Building Schools for the Future programme - said: "BSF is about transforming education and improving the life chances for all young people across the country, providing teachers with the work places they deserve, and putting schools back at the centre of their communities. I look forward to charting the progress of Barking and Dagenham and the difference BSF makes."
