Suitability Assessments
Suitability Assessments of schools are an integral part of the Asset Management Planning (AMP) process introduced by the DCSF and now embedded in local authority building related decision making. They form one of the bases of effective and efficient planning for the use of available funding.
Suitability Assessments are carried out in accordance with the DCSF Asset Management Guidance Document “Section 4.”
DCSF Design Guidance “Building Bulletin 98” for secondary schools and “Building Bulletin 99” for primary schools sets out recommendations on the numbers and types of spaces which schools should have.
Suitability Assessments establish a surplus or shortfall of each type of space, by reference to the current CAD drawing which is checked to ensure that spaces have been correctly identified.
In the case of secondary schools a Curriculm Analysis is undertaken to obtain the optimum number of spaces required.
Existing spaces are assessed against the DCSF Suitability Assessment Criteria and the appropriate grading applied where a suitability issue is identified. This assessment is carried out in discussion with the Headteacher to ensure that it reflects both the DCSF recommendations on spaces and the day to day operation of the school.
A detailed Suitability Report is prepared, together with a Key Issues report summarising the main findings.
Our Service
- Prepare the necessary initial information, including a Curriculum Analysis in the case of a secondary school
- Visit the school and carry out a full assessment of the building(s) with the Headteacher
- Obtain details of the location and size of each yeargroup and class in a primary school
- Discuss the findings of the assessment with the Headteacher and identify the Key Issues
- Prepare the Suitability Report, including the Key Issues section
- Provide the authority with the report and discuss issues