3.5 The assessment looked at the processes implemented to obtain and realise new ideas and private sector innovation on school design through an output-based approach.
3.6 The Pilot PPP Schools were determined as designed to a higher specification; however, this higher standard is not greatly significant. Subsequent School Bundle reviews are likely to evidence that the architectural and design developments since 2000s have extended the lifespan of the purpose-built educational places and provide further supporting arguments.
3.7 The Pilot PPP Schools Bundle did meet the objective of achieving some innovation in design and the design has contributed to the schools being well maintained over time, with finishes being robust and the M&E installations being easily serviceable. DoE has advised that the experience of the wider circulation spaces in the Pilot PPP Schools prompted this feature to be subsequently incorporated into design guidance for all school buildings. The innovation could have been greater given the additional cost. Subsequent PPP Schools do have higher costs and, in some instances, innovative design; however, the design of non-PPP Schools has also developed since the Pilot PPP Schools Bundle design and the full comparison between the subsequent schemes does not form part of this Review.