Written question WQ99354

The Welsh Government recognises the contribution that faith schools make to the education sector, with 220 Roman Catholic, Church in Wales and Anglican schools in Wales.

The Welsh Government supports the sustainability of faith schools through dedicated £19.2 million in capital grants for the maintenance and repair of voluntary aided school buildings, recognising the financial pressures facing the sector. In addition, £13 million has been allocated to diocesan authorities through the Voluntary Aided Capital Repairs and Maintenance Programme to support smaller-scale, priority maintenance projects. A further £6.4 million has been made available through these grant schemes in the current financial year, ensuring continued support for the upkeep of voluntary aided school estates and helping to maintain safe, sustainable learning environments for learners and staff.

Under the main Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, local authorities are expected to work closely with diocesan authorities in developing their Strategic Outline Plans for the education estate. This helps ensure that faith-based provision is appropriately considered in long-term planning for the school estate.