MORE than 100 schools and colleges across the country have been told they need to partially close buildings because of fears concrete foundations could suddenly collapse. 

However, no schools in Herefordshire have been found to have been immediately affected so far, according to the council. 

The Department for Education (DfE) said some children may be forced back into pandemic-style remote learning.

The issue arises around reinforced autocalved aerated concrete (RAAC), with critics warning that the problems could be far wider.

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The Government has not said which schools and colleges are affected; however, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has said that 'most parents should not be worried about this at all'. 

In Herefordshire, some parents have been contacted by schools stating that it's business as usual and they will open as normal next week for the start of the new academic year.

A spokesperson for Herefordshire Council said: "We have carried out initial RAAC investigations as part of the latest condition surveys of the maintained and voluntary controlled schools we are responsible for, and no schools have been found to be immediately affected.

"To date, 21 schools have been classed as free of RAAC. A further 25 will require more detailed inspection and more intrusive surveys may be needed on some sites."

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