Primary Education: School Libraries
Question
Mike Martin
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what her planned timetable is for primary schools to apply for funding under the £10 million Libraries for Primaries scheme; and how will primary schools be able to apply for that funding.
Answer
Stephanie PeacockThe Department for Culture, Media and Sport has responsibility for the Dormant Assets Scheme, which is providing funding to support the primary school library commitment, previously announced by the Chancellor.
Through the Scheme, £132.5 million has been allocated to increasing disadvantaged young people’s access to enrichment opportunities in the arts, culture, sports and wider youth services, aimed at improving wellbeing and employability over the long term. This includes a commitment to ensuring that every primary school in England has a library space by the end of this Parliament.
The Government is working with The National Lottery Community Fund to co-design the programme and develop more of the specifics around its delivery. Further details will be announced in due course, including expected timelines and funding criteria.