Written question WQ88983

Welsh Government is working collaboratively with local authorities to determine the scale and impact of RAAC in schools. Local authorities, in discussion with affected schools, will determine how pupils, parents and staff will be supported at this time.

So far across Wales, proportionally very few learners have been affected by RAAC but local Authorities are undertaking further work to verify the position in their area. As reported in my statements of 8 and 15 September, most local authorities have indicated that their schools are not affected.

Where necessary, local authorities and head teachers will have conducted a risk assessment and have a plan in place to ensure that learners are supported in the event of a temporary school closure as a result of an emergency, public health issue or, as we have seen this week, concerns about the school environment or buildings.

Welsh Government has published Emergency Planning and Response Guidance to advise schools and local authorities how to respond to significant events which may affect the operation of their schools. This includes how changes will be communicated to children, learners, students, parents, carers and staff, with any timescales of returning to usual if possible. We have also published Learning Continuity Guidance for schools to support learners who cannot attend on-site learning.