No schools in Ebor Academy Trust were on the government list to close because of failing concrete.
Ebor has completed initial tests at all of its schools and there are no obvious signs of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). We have commissioned detailed, intrusive surveys on schools which may be affected because they were built within the timeframe, and await results.
All Ebor schools opened for the autumn term as planned.
The Department for Education (DfE) has been helping education settings and responsible bodies (such as local authorities and multi-academy trusts) to identify and manage the potential risks of RAAC since 2018.
We do not have any confirmed RAAC in our buildings and have not been asked to close any areas. However, we want to take care and to be sure and are currently working with the DfE to actively check whether RAAC has been used in the construction of any part of our buildings. If RAAC is identified, we will let you know straight away.
The change in government guidance is precautionary in nature and only affects education premises where the presence of RAAC has been confirmed. DfE is offering us access to surveyors who are helping us do these checks quickly.
Any contingency plans will prioritise the continuation of education and ensure that, if RAAC is identified, any impact on pupils is kept to an absolute minimum. Rest assured that the safety of children and staff is of paramount importance to all concerned.
