Will the Minister outline all of the specific measures taken to ensure education provision continues at Ysgol David Hughes and Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi following the discovery of RAAC at the schools and provide a breakdown of the full and total costs of those measures?
The staff and pupils’ safety has been paramount throughout the process and work on assessing and mitigating the situation based on the new evidence has been undertaken at pace. Increasing the end bearing of the reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) planks by the insertion of additional structural timber support has been the measure required across most situations, including additional support where planks have been cut for the likes of skylights or where condition dictates. This has involved stripping back of false ceilings to expose the full extent of the RAAC.
Staff have worked tirelessly to provide a continued education provision which has been a mix of online and face-to-face learning. All pupils at Ysgol David Hughes have returned to face-to-face teaching. In Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi a hybrid solution continues involving some pupils being taught at the local library and leisure centre. Pupils with additional learning needs and vulnerable learners are receiving face-to-face contact every day of the week. When learners are not receiving face to face learning, they are receiving distance learning through Teams on-line lessons. All learners have been provided with Chromebooks to maximise engagement in online lessons. In addition to this, there are several days arranged where whole year groups are receiving wellbeing days when not scheduled for face-to-face teaching to increase teacher contact.
Costs are a matter for the local authority to report as Welsh Government do not have this information at present.