R+D Programme
Crawford Wright, Head of Architecture and Design, DfE | Duncan Craig, Technical Policy Lead, DfE | Paul Booth, Headteacher, Byron Primary School

This session will provide an overview of the department's Research and Development (R&D) programme, setting out the context of our estate and the key issues and challenges that are driving our work. Attendees will gain insight into the questions we are seeking to answer and the evidence-based approach being taken to support future decision-making.

The session will showcase achievements to date, highlighting how research findings have influenced school building specifications and delivered tangible benefits for schools. It will also examine the impact of the programme more broadly, sharing key lessons learned and emerging insights.

Finally, the session will look ahead to the next phase of the R&D programme, outlining future priorities, opportunities for innovation, and the steps being taken to improve and adapt the education estate for the future.