4. The DoE commissioned this Review to examine all aspects of delivering the Pilot Schools under the PPP model relative to delivering schools under the conventional delivery model, and to assess whether the Pilot Schools project objectives have been met. All analysis in this Review has been undertaken prior to the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic and no impact of this on the figures reported is assessed as part of this report. The Review is part of a wider framework to assess and review the success in delivery of the objectives of a PPP project throughout its life. This framework consists of three key stages: Post Project Review, Mid Term Review, and Post Expiry Review.
5. The objectives of the Review were:
• To compare the Pilot Schools with a DoE-selected comparator group of conventionally delivered schools, hereafter referred to as the 'Conventional Schools'. Including comparison of design/functionality, energy efficiency, building condition, residual life, facilities and maintenance services, flexibility, administration required, risk, and Third-Party Usage.
• To assess the extent to which the following DoE objectives in delivering the Pilot PPP Schools Bundle have been achieved, namely:
- To test the value for money of delivering school provision on a design, build, finance, manage and maintain basis over a long period through the PPP model.
- To obtain and realise new ideas and private sector innovation on school design through an output-based approach.
- To reduce school Principals' responsibility for managing school buildings, allowing them instead to concentrate on their core educational and school management functions.
- To achieve better use of State-funded school buildings outside of regular school hours.
• To develop a methodology and template for use by the DoE in Reviews of other PPP projects in the education sector.