River Tees Hospital School in Park End, Middlesbrough, has secured Labour Government funding for a major roof replacement project, helping provide a safer and more sustainable environment for some of Teesside’s most vulnerable children.
The school, which supports hundreds of pupils with complex medical needs, will use the funding to carry out a complete refurbishment of the roof at its Sandringham House base in Park End. The work will improve the building’s long-term efficiency while helping ensure pupils can learn in a safe and secure environment.
The support comes through the Government’s Condition Improvement Fund, which helps schools address issues such as heating systems, roofs, electrical works and other building repairs. It forms part of a wider programme to renew the school estate after years of underinvestment.
River Tees Hospital School provides education for children and young people facing significant health challenges, helping them continue their learning and prepare for the next stages of education and adulthood during difficult periods in their lives.
A spokesperson for River Tees Hospital School said:
“The funding will enable us to undertake a complete refurbishment of our school roof, significantly improving the sustainability and efficiency of our building for years to come.
“More importantly, it will provide a safer and more secure environment for the hundreds of vulnerable pupils we support, all of whom have complex medical needs.
“On behalf of our entire school community, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for the Government’s investment in our school, and thank Luke for his support and for championing investment in education and the wellbeing of young people across our community.”
Luke Myer MP said:
“River Tees Hospital School does extraordinary work supporting children and young people through some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
“I’m delighted that this funding has been secured. Every child deserves to learn in a safe, warm and well-maintained environment, and that is especially important for pupils with complex medical needs.
“I look forward to visiting the school and seeing first-hand the difference this investment will make for pupils, families and staff.”
Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson said:
“The defining image of the school estate under the previous government was children sitting under steel props to stop crumbling concrete falling on their heads. It simply isn’t good enough.
“Parents expect their children to learn in a safe warm environment. It’s what children deserve, and it is what we are delivering.
“This investment is about more than just buildings – it’s about showing children that their education matters, their futures matter, and this government is determined to give them the best possible start in life.”
The CIF programme is just one part of the government’s investment of over £2.1 billion for this year to improve the condition of schools, reflecting Labour’s commitment to high-quality buildings that give children and young people the conditions they need to achieve and thrive.
Labour is also investing at least £3.7 billion between 2025 and 2030 to support councils in providing places for children and young people with SEND or who require alternative provision, and to improve the accessibility and inclusivity of mainstream settings.
The government’s Education Estates Strategy sets out plans for an education estate that supports opportunity for all, backed by a decade long plan to transform schools and colleges.