Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hackney Building Schools for the Future (BSF)?
It is a national, Government programme implemented by the Council and The Learning Trust to rebuild or renew every mainstream secondary and special educational needs school in Hackney by autumn 2014. Over the coming years we will invest more than £170 million in our children’s education.
What does BSF mean for the children of Hackney?
It will ensure that every child aged 11-19 in Hackney has the opportunity to receive education of 21st century standards in modernised secondary schools. Campuses should be more than just schools, which is why BSF has a focus on modern educational, social and sports facilities with easy-to-use information and communication technology at the heart of the programme.
What is The Learning Trust and what does it do?
It is a not-for-profit company that runs all the education services in Hackney for the Council. They are responsible for schools, children’s centres, early years and adult education. Visit The Learning Trust website.
Who are Mouchel Babcock Education (MBE) and what is their role in Hackney BSF?
MBE is a joint 50:50 venture between consulting and business services group Mouchel Parkman and Babcock Infrastructure Services. It was specially formed to deliver the planning and construction of schools in the Hackney BSF programme.
Who else is involved in Hackney BSF?
Partnerships for Schools is the other major organisation involved in the project. It was established in 2004 by the Department for Children, Schools and Families, and Partnerships UK to deliver the Government’s Building Schools for the Future programme.
Their job is to ensure every secondary school in England is transformed by BSF. Hackney was the 25th Building Schools for the Future project to get the green light from Partnerships for Schools.
Will every secondary school be rebuilt?
In Hackney, we will be looking at each school on an individual basis to determine whether it needs rebuilding, refurbishing or some minor remodelling work. Details of the plans for each school will be published on this site once available.
Will having community services on-site distract the school from delivering education?
The school's governing body will decide whether the school should offer additional activities and services, so they will need to be satisfied that any services are appropriate. Services provided generally complement the main teaching and learning activity within the school, and can also reduce the burden on teachers by addressing pupils' wider problems, so teachers can concentrate on teaching. Additional services can also encourage parents to become more involved in the school and their children's learning.
Will all schools be constructed at the same time?
No. We intend to split the programme into three manageable phases. Two of the Phase 1 schools are in schedule for completion later this year. Phase 2 schools are in schedule to start construction later this year and expected to be completed by 2012, early 2013. Phase 3 schools which are the special educational schools and pupils’ referal units are estimated to be completed by autumn 2014.
Are Hackney primary schools included in BSF?
BSF is a secondary schools programme and primary schools are not included. This is because there are particular challenges to secondary schools to raise standards: improving teaching and learning for 11-14 year olds, developing a broader range of curriculum choices for 14-19 year olds and supporting greater specialisation and collaboration. The increasing focus on specialisms such as in technology, languages or science at secondary level requires specialist facilities.
Will the needs of pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) or disabilities be catered for in the new school designs?
BSF is a real opportunity to improve accessibility and inclusion at our secondary schools. Any new build or refurbishment will have to comply with the latest legislation, and both Hackney Council and central government policies.
Is post-16 education, such as AS levels, included in the BSF programme?
Yes. We shall be providing age 14-19 learning at our BSF sites. We are working with schools, colleges and other further education providers to set up a full range of opportunities throughout the Borough, increasing vocational opportunities and providing opportunities for lifelong learning.
Are there similar schools already built and in use?
Yes, there are a number around the country. Any lessons that can be learnt by the experience of the schools in the new buildings can feed into the design and specification of BSF schools in Hackney. In turn, we expect our new schools to become exemplars for others to follow.
What evidence is there that better facilities improve the standard of education?
The BSF programme is based on the theory that while there can be good levels of attainment in bad buildings, and poor attainment in relatively good buildings, all pupils will benefit from improved facilities and a modern learning environment. Experience from our previous rebuild schemes has shown this to be the case. The new facilities will empower teachers to teach to the best of their ability, and pupils will become more motivated to learn in an environment which encourages engagement..
What will happen to students during the construction and demolition process?
Disruption will be kept to a minimum. Pupils will continue to attend their existing schools, which will remain open until the new buildings are ready for occupation.
What do you mean by 21st century facilities?
Many school buildings are of poor design, are dull and uniform, and have an institutional look and feel to them. They are also inappropriate for the way education will be delivered in future.
For schools to be able to provide excellent educational facilities for the next 20-30 years, designs for new schools and major adaptations will need to take account of current and likely future developments in education and technology. For example, there may be impacts from the provision of a more diverse curriculum for 14+ year olds, new ways of learning and use of ICT, opening up the school to the wider community, and including pupils with special educational needs into mainstream schools where appropriate.
The buildings will serve their communities for many years to come, so they need to be attractive and of a high quality. The designs should therefore encompass things such as sustainability, flexibility and adaptability, and value for money.
Will extra sports facilities be created under the BSF programme, and will the community be able to use them?
Yes, BSF schools will include sports facilities which will in most cases be an improvement on what schools have now. For example, a large school hall will be provided, plus a sports hall and outdoor courts and/or grassed areas. Priority use of these facilities is for the school but the wider community will be encouraged to use them where appropriate. We are working with regional sports and culture groups to ensure we take opportunities to provide for a range of sports and leisure interests as part of the Extended Schools programme.
Page updated: 15 Jun 2010
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