Over half of teachers report that building issues, such as leaks and poor heating, affect student learning

A recent survey of over 8,000 teachers reveals that more than half believe poor school facilities are negatively impacting the learning environment for pupils. Conducted by the National Education Union (NEU), the survey highlights concerns about building conditions, including leaks, damp, and poor temperature regulation, which are affecting both staff and students.

The poll, which was carried out in February, found that 68% of teachers in England and Wales reported working in schools with leaking roofs. Additionally, 33% of teachers stated that overheating during summer months was a severe problem, while 16% identified inadequate heating in the winter as a major concern.

Other reported issues included waterlogged carpets, mould, vermin infestations, and blocked drains that caused flooding. One teacher noted that pupil toilets had been out of action for weeks due to delays in refurbishments, which also disrupted classroom activities. Other respondents reported severe health impacts, with some pupils and staff developing asthma or long-term sickness due to poor air quality caused by damp conditions.

Nearly 45% of respondents reported the presence of damp or mould, and 41% said they had witnessed signs of vermin in their schools. Furthermore, 18% of respondents indicated that building issues regularly or always hindered their pupils’ learning, with 39% stating that it was sometimes the case.

Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the NEU, condemned the poor conditions, stating, “Pupils are routinely being taught in conditions that have a negative impact on their learning and could even impact their health.” He emphasized that the issues were not the fault of school leaders, who are struggling with insufficient budgets and deteriorating facilities.

In response, the Department for Education stated that £1.8 billion would be allocated to help maintain school buildings this financial year, bringing the total funding for school building maintenance since 2015 to over £17 billion. They also pointed to the £450 million Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) for 2024-25 and the ongoing School Rebuilding Programme, which aims to overhaul the infrastructure of over 500 schools in the next decade.