Mr Mathison said: “The report underlines a critical backlog of maintenance costs totalling £450 million, which continues to impact school infrastructure and the learning environment for children across Northern Ireland.

“For years, our education system has been chronically underfunded, and the lack of adequate support from the UK Government has left Northern Ireland’s schools facing severe maintenance issues. We must press the UK Government to fund Northern Ireland based on objective need so we can ensure our schools are safe, functional, and fit for purpose.

“While additional funding is crucial, we also need the Minister of Education to make responsible choices that reflect the needs of our entire school system. With a £450 million maintenance backlog, the Minister’s continued focus on the £350 million Strule Shared Education Campus, and his prioritisation of a pilot program for magnetic pouches to manage mobile phone use, has raised questions about his judgement to prioritise resources.

“At a time when so many of our existing school facilities are deteriorating, this kind of spending is not the best use of funds. It is time for clear, transparent prioritisation in line with the educational needs and safety of our students. 

“The Alliance Party and I are calling on the Minister of Education to commit to a more strategic, needs-based approach to funding and project selection within the education sector to maximise impact and value for Northern Ireland’s students and teachers.”