Frequently Asked Questions

What will BSF mean for my child?

The programme will mean that all children and young people in Blackpool will benefit from a transformation in education and well designed, efficient 21st century secondary school buildings and facilities. Improved school buildings can also improve educational standards and have a positive effect on everyone who uses them. In addition, schools will be able to make their enhanced facilities available to the wider community so more people can benefit.

What are the core principles for BSF in Blackpool?

• We value all learning.
• We shall attract and engage our children and young people, their families and, communities.
• Learners will be able to connect through the virtual learning platform to their lead learner anywhere, anytime.
• All learners, all teachers, all schools will be connected for learning through the learning platform.
• Through our virtual learning environment we promote social networking and learning through collaboration.

What is Blackpool’s ‘Vision for Learning’?

Relevant learning opportunities which skill up young people for further education and the world of work, ensuring we have no young people who are not in education, employment or training.

Aspirational learning environments where barriers to learning are overcome and schools achieve at least national averages by 2016 (and continue to achieve above average levels of value added progress).

Inclusive learning communities where everyone can achieve their potential and where learners are inspired. Attendance surpasses national averages because children and young people are excited by school and the learning landscape in Blackpool.

Seven days a week learning opportunities through developing extended services in schools and engaging children and families through ICT and the virtual learning environment.

Engaging environments for parents and communities, recognising them as the child’s primary educator, and developing their skills.

Will every secondary school be rebuilt?

At a national level, the Government is providing funding based on the following split;

• 50% new build
• 35% major refurbishment
• 15% minor refurbishment

In Blackpool 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 in this site once finalised.

Will all schools be constructed at the same time?

No. We intend to split the programme into two phases. A full phasing table will be posted on this site once it becomes finalised. 

How many schools does Blackpool’s BSF cover?

8 Secondary Schools: St. George’s, Palatine, Highfield, Collegiate, St. Mary’s, Montgomery, Bispham High and Beacon Hill (to be strategically re-aligned)

2 SEN Schools: Highfurlong & Park, 1 Education Diversity school and a Studio School

What indicative plans are in place for each school?

What is the funding envelope for Blackpool?

Currently, our funding envelope is £172million of which £12million is expected to be allocated for ICT.

What is Blackpool’s strategy for the development of technology?

Blackpool’s strategy addresses four key strands of the children’s service delivery:

• Teaching and Learning
• Integrated working
• Family and Community focused services
• Business Modernisation

Each of these four tranches has five attributes:

• Working and learning spaces e.g. 24/7 access.
• Working and learning networking e.g. for social contact.
• Working and Learning facilitation e.g. access to remote learning opportunities.
• Working and learning landscape e.g. prioritise the development of new opportunities as new technologies are explored.
• Working and learning styles e.g. allow learning through academic learning, action learning and non-written assessment styles.

What about consultation on the proposals?

All the normal statutory proposals associated with major changes to schools will apply, including the need to undertake consultation. We intend to actively involve teachers, parents, students, and the wider community in developing proposals for new facilities. As the build programme develops further details will be available on our website.

Who are Partnerships for Schools?

The Government department for education, now known as the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) has set up this organisation which will manage the BSF and Academies programme. Partnerships for Schools is a non-departmental public body (NDPB) set up to assist local authorities in the delivery of BSF and Academy projects, jointly managed by the DCSF and Partnerships UK.

What happens if the Council or Government change politically – will the BSF scheme be scrapped?

No. The BSF scheme has backing from all major political parties at present.

How do I find out further information on plans for an individual school?

Details are available on this website. Further information can be found through the schools themselves, you will find website links on the school pages.