Once
the need has been established, the school should,
for all but the most straightforward projects, work
up feasibility studies and consider the costs and
benefits of alternative solutions.
For existing schools, the starting point for these
should be, firstly, the building development plan,
which identifies the longer term building implications
of the school's educational plan. This plan is particularly
important now that schools have more opportunity
to do small-scale capital projects through devolved
funding. Secondly, account should be taken of the
accommodation assessments carried out as part of
the development of the LEA's Asset Management Plan.
These will identify shortcomings in terms of the
condition of building elements and the sufficiency
and suitability of accommodation.
The feasibility study, which should be carried out
by LEA officers or a consultant, should look at
both immediate and future needs of the school. Many
(especially large secondary) schools, which have
had a number of additions and alterations over the
years, have become 'messy' and a careful plan of
rationalisation can improve the situation a great
deal. It is unlikely that all work can be carried
out at once, but it is easier to do pockets of work
within an agreed plan. This is more likely to result
in long-term value for money. |
|
|
