To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families whether local authorities are required to submit proposals that include an academy as part of the bid process for capital funding under the Building Schools for the Future programme. (271529)

Authorities do not have to have academies or submit further proposals for academies in order to access Building Schools for the Future (BSF) funding. They must demonstrate how they will use BSF to raise standards in schools. “Strategy for Change” guidance makes clear that local authorities should undertake a proper and objective evaluation of academy options when developing their plans. Where an authority does not propose an academy as replacement for a poorly performing maintained school, it must be demonstrated that an equally strong alternative, innovative strategy is in place for raising standards at the school.