The National Education Union (NEU), National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) and Association of School & College Leaders (ASCL) have published joint guidance on fire risk assessments in schools in view of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. 

The appalling fire at Grenfell Tower in June 2017 brought into sharp focus wider questions about fire safety. This has understandably caused widespread concern throughout the education sector about how many school buildings have cladding that is not fire resistant. Pupils, parents, staff and the wider community who use educational buildings need reassurance that they are not being exposed to a similar fire risk.

Unlike Grenfell Tower, school buildings have a common fire alarm system and practice evacuation procedures. Nevertheless, a fire involving combustible cladding on the outside of a school poses a risk to children and staff that must be taken seriously.

To assist school leaders in understanding the risks to schools and how best to address these, the NEU, NAHT and ASCL have published joint guidance to answer common questions and advise on how best to review fire risk assessments to ensure that children and staff are kept safe.

Look at our fire safety advice document for what practical steps you can take in the meantime.