The Conservative government's plan to open 44 new state schools in England has hit a snag as ministers put the projects on hold amid concerns over value for money. This move affects a range of mainstream primary and secondary schools that were initially approved under the 'free school' application process introduced by the Conservatives in 2010.
Among the high-profile projects now under scrutiny are three proposed sixth-form colleges in Dudley, Middlesbrough, and Oldham, backed by Eton College and Star Academies trust. These colleges aim to improve social mobility for young people across the country, with an anticipated opening date in late 2026. A spokesperson reaffirmed their long-term commitment to the initiative.
The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, told Parliament that officials are assessing whether approved but unopened schools meet local needs and offer good value for taxpayers' money. The review will also consider if these projects provide a distinctive curriculum and any potential impact on existing local educational providers. Phillipson stressed that ensuring children thrive in education remains the top priority, regardless of school type, with new schools opening where genuine need is identified.
The Department for Education has announced that further details about the affected school projects and the full scope of the review will be made public in due course. This decision follows concerns raised by the National Audit Office, which found that mainstream free schools opened between 2015 and 2021 created approximately 57,500 unfilled places, sparking questions over wasted public funding.
Shifting demographic trends are also influencing this re-evaluation, as England's pupil numbers are projected to decline by 12% over the next decade due to a falling birthrate. This has led many local authorities, particularly in London, to focus on managing school closures rather than opening new institutions. Phillipson suggested that any savings from this review could be redirected towards improving the deteriorating condition of existing schools and colleges nationwide.