Every summer, when classrooms are empty, the Consorci d’Educació de Barcelona gets down to work. Taking advantage of the break in classes during this summer season, they are embarking on an ambitious project of reforms, extensions and improvements in the city’s educational centers.
The objective is clear: to ensure that these spaces are in optimal technical and comfort conditions for the next school year.
This year, 150 improvement works are being carried out in various educational centers in Barcelona. These works are part of a broader plan that includes a total of 164 planned actions in 145 educational centers.
The total investment planned for 2023 amounts to a significant 66.7 million euros, with contributions of 41.4 million euros from the Barcelona City Council and 25.3 million euros from the Department of Education of the Generalitat. Of the latter, 15.8 million euros are provided by the European REACT Funds.
Reforms, extensions and improvements in Barcelona’s educational centers.
The actions carried out during the summer include reforms, extensions and improvements (known as RAM) in educational centers. These actions represent a total investment of 19 million euros and are aimed at maintaining the buildings in optimal conditions.
One of the highlights of these actions is the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Energy Improvement and Sustainability, with the purpose of making the centers more efficient and comfortable, improving energy efficiency, green energy generation and consumption, as well as indoor and outdoor thermal comfort.
A special focus of this year’s work is to minimize the impact of high summer temperatures on the city’s schools. To achieve this, an investment of more than 4 million euros has been earmarked, 1.5 million more than in previous years.
The measures implemented include natural cross ventilation, the rehabilitation of facades and roofs to improve insulation, and the occasional air conditioning of some spaces. All of this contributes to a more comfortable and healthy environment for students and staff.
In terms of food infrastructure, this year a new kitchen has been set up at the Escola Poeta Foix. In addition, improvements have been made in a total of 32 kitchens and in the dining rooms of two schools.
The “Let’s Transform the Courtyards” program
The program aims to turn schoolyards into more natural and versatile areas, with a greater diversity of play options and climatic refuges.
This summer, 17 works are being completed under this program, and 58 schools have already transformed their playgrounds. The goal is that by 2030, all schools in the city will have improved playgrounds that promote a healthier and more engaging learning environment.
