From the Teacher Support Network, www.teachersupport.info.

MINIMUM DESIGN STANDARD FOR BSF SCHEME
Teachers to have more of a say over new designs

Teacher Support Network has been quoted in a SecEd article about the creation of a Minimum Design Standard for the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) scheme.

The report explains that educationalists will now be included on the panel to assess the BSF scheme as well as continuing to be assessed by school architecture experts on the Campaign for Architecture and the Built Environment's (CABE).

Schools minister Jim Knight said: “This is the first time that independently assessed, clear, objective and robust standards have been laid down for a public sector building construction programme.

“It adds real teeth to the design process so that any project failing to make the grade will simply not move forward. It means that teachers and students are involved right from the start.”

Teacher Support Network Chief Executive, Julian Stanley welcomed the plans and was quoted as saying: “Our joint report with the British Council of School Environments found last year that there were significant barriers that prevented teachers from fully engaging in the BSF process.

“Given the chance, teachers can ensure that new buildings facilitate high standards of teaching and learning, as well as help improve the wellbeing of both staff and pupils.”

To read the full article, please click here.

For further information on the design review visit www.cabe.org.uk/design-review/school