What happened: Between 2014-15 and 2023-24, Conservative governments spent £325 million on 67 free schools that later failed or closed, often due to low demand. Over £10 billion was spent on new school buildings compared to £6.8 billion on rebuilding existing schools.
Why it matters:
- Significant public funds were invested in schools that did not remain operational, raising concerns about resource allocation.
- The focus on new builds over refurbishing existing schools may have contributed to deteriorating school infrastructure.
MNN Take: The data highlights challenges in planning and funding within the education sector, showing a need to balance investment between new schools and maintaining current facilities.
Sources: Guardian UK