The Primary Capital Programme & Primary Strategy for Change (PSfC)

The Government is committed to a programme of long term strategic capital investment in primary schools beginning in 2009 and continuing for up to 15 years. Full details of the scope and purpose of the Primary Capital Programme are available on the website www.teachernet.gov.uk

The Government aims to do more than simply provide modern primary school buildings through this programme. The wider purpose is to support the national policy aims of fair access to quality school places, tackling deprivation and raising standards. National research has demonstrated the strong link between attainment at Key Stage 2 and the likelihood of attaining 5 A* ‐ C grades at GCSE and, subsequently, economic well‐being in later life. The stark message is that if children fail to reach their full potential whilst they are in primary school, the loss of opportunity is likely to affect them well into their adult lives with all the attendant problems of poverty, ill‐health and social disadvantage that this brings. It
is the responsibility of the Local Authority, schools, parents and associated agencies to ensure that children get off to the best possible start in life. The Isle of Wight Local Authority, as commissioner of local services, is responsible for preparing and maintaining the Primary Strategy for Change, which is the document that sets out our plans for the Primary Capital Programme. The Strategy provides contextual information on current primary school provision, what we want it to look like in future and how we will make this happen.
The Strategy aims to reflect local needs and aspirations and provide a plan that details how the capital investment will improve outcomes for all primary age children attending Island schools. In the tradition of excellent working partnerships built up over a number of years, schools, diocesan authorities, local organisations and all those with an interest in the well being of children will continue to be fully consulted and involved throughout the life time of the programme. By working together, we can make a real difference to the futures of our children. We are confident that this much needed capital investment will provide the catalyst for a step‐change improvement in outcomes for primary age children, that will better equip them for a more successful and satisfying adult life, and will ultimately lead to better quality lives for all Island residents.

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