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4 Preservation with progress Rising to the university retrofit challenge in the quest for net zero
8 Product & Industry News The latest news and views on campus
22 Keeping schools safe from fire Advances in digital technology 26 Electronic access Ensuring safe escape door compliance in schools
30 Smart auditing The next frontier in modernising cleaning
34 Winter ready?
Why operators plan their winter maintenance now
38 Staff sanctuary
Six ways to make a school staff room more inviting
42 Bridging AI divide
How to safely integrate AI in schools according to the experts
Preservation with progress
Rising
to the university retrofit challenge in the quest for
net zero
Balancing budgets, sustainability targets and the maintenance of a modern university campus is a complex challenge requiring bold thinking. Yet some of the answers may lie in the environment the estate serves. Kieran Dyer, director at multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard, explores the unique opportunities offered to universities to lead the way when new build is not the answer.
They say nothing worth doing comes easy - and while retrofitting is
rarely a simple solution, in the right hands, it has the potential to achieve a low impact and whole life value solution to upgrading and improving university estates. In this, higher education sites have the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Government’s net zero commitment. That’s if our institutions can see beyond the immediate hurdles of funding gaps and ageing bricks and mortar assets.
Drawing on their proven strengths in establishing successful partnerships and experience
in innovation and leadership, universities can turn the retrofit challenge into an opportunity to benefit staff, students and the wider community.
Balancing preservation with progress
Preserving history is important to many university estates, particularly where Grade-listed buildings are concerned. Retrofitting focuses on improving energy efficiency, optimising energy consumption and other resources consumption, and
hence reducing waste generation. A sensitive approach is often called for.
It is essential in these situations to balance the purpose and future use of a building with ongoing maintenance requirements and the suitability and integration of energy efficiency measures.
This must be done on a caseby-case basis, due to the varying typologies associated with different building ages. For example, a 1960s estate could be built with a concrete frame and a brick skin, so there must be a strategy to work with that. And, of course, for older buildings, these strategies are often more complex.
Appearance, design and historic significance can still be upheld by working with an original layout and introducing systems that enhance but don’t detract from these original features.
The restoration and finish following an upgrade is also just as important, with traditional materials often used to maintain permeable properties.
Sustainability in design
Retrofitting a building often goes hand-in-hand with expanding
and adapting its usefulness. Managing moisture, air and heat in a traditional building has become increasingly important as climate change drives more intense and prolonged temperature and humidity fluctuations. A comfortable internal environment is often a healthier environment too, and ensures these important structures remain viable places to study, work and visit.
Retrofitting in response to the demands of the local environment, as well as climate conditions, can help to protect their future. At Nottingham Trent University, a retrofit and refurbishment programme was carried out at its Belgrave building in the heart of the city to create a dedicated Postgraduate Centre for the business school. Upgrading the site involved architecture, interior design, and landscaping services. As well as becoming a more efficient space from an environmental perspective, the brief was to create a space to fulfil multiple needs and to have the flexibility to evolve over time.
The new facility offers community, social, study, and employability spaces for 1,800-2,200 postgraduate
taught students and flexible office space for 50-70 Nottingham Business School postgraduate-related academic and professional services staff. The project achieved SKA bronze certification for sustainability, recognising efforts to preserve the embodied energy of the original building by reusing the original building structure. The approach not only conserved resources but also reduced waste and carbon emissions associated with demolition and new construction.
The associated landscaping scheme was developed to support local wildlife and boost biodiversity. Where existing materials could not be re-used, environmentally friendly materials and systems, such as water-saving fixtures and energyefficient lighting were sourced to reduce lifetime environmental impact.
Establishing a retrofit plan
Universities are in a unique position when it comes to decarbonisation, being responsible for large, complex estates often in prime locations. Figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency show that the 133
providers, which submitted data for 2021-22, released 1.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. This presents an opportunity to make a real and meaningful impact, as well as show innovation and leadership in this sphere.
However, ‘The Cost of Net Zero’ report, for higher and further education establishments in the UK, estimates the transition will cost £43.8 billion (£37.1 billion for higher education alone). The research also found the supply chain required the largest investment, followed by the built environment.
Although a massive undertaking, just as bite-sized learning is an
effective strategy for busy lives, the same approach can be successfully applied to retrofitting. Bringing professionals on board early to assess estate performance, provide strategic advice and help to build a retrofit plan through small, manageable steps is a vital tool.
In this, retrofit projects must not be about ‘quick fixes’. Bringing about sustainable, long-life improvements means many of these undertakings will require careful and extensive planning and (likely) decades of diligent management, and hence, it is important for estates teams to recognise what the investment will entail.
Similarly, retrofits should also be used to boost efficiency and reduce carbon; again, this needs to be the product of early, specialist engagement and thorough modelling and analysis.
Careful step-by-step planning of retrofits will also support effective budget management. Whether taking on a whole building retrofit or breaking a scheme down into individual measures, our student population is looking for a commitment from universities to decarbonise their campuses.
Working in collaboration with staff, students, industry professionals, topic specialists, local stakeholders and construction contractors will encourage the identification of new and innovative ways to deliver retrofit projects in higher education. The engagement process can also equip students with the skills to take action and find solutions, as well as inspiring their future choices of institution and career.
The journey towards low-impact, future-proofed and whole-life value solutions remains one of learning and discovery. Taking on the retrofit challenge places our universities’ strengths at the heart of change.
Kieren Dyer
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East Mids education provisions, completing at three school sites
Kristian Cunningham, performer, choreographer and producer, officially opened the dance studio at Harpur Hill Primary School
THREE schools across Derbyshire have seen improvements to facilities through building work now completed by construction partner, Stepnell.
Working alongside Derbyshire County Council and consultants Concertus, all three projects in the East Midlands were procured through the NHS Shared Business Services Framework across Buxton and Alfreton, with a total value of £3.2 million.
At Harpur Hill Primary School in Buxton, Stepnell’s East Midlands team delivered new KS2 accommodation, a dance studio and two individual classrooms, linked by a central lobby. The finished works also include a group room, unisex and accessible toilets, a cleaner’s store, plant room and storage room. Externally, a covered canopy linking to the staff car park was also delivered. The school hosted a celebration to mark the launch of the brand-new dance studio, welcoming Kristian Cunningham, performer, choreographer and producer, to officially open the space - with the event featuring music and dance performance from pupils.
Work has also concluded at Swanwick Primary School in Alfreton, with the project consisting of an infill extension to create two adaptable group rooms, new fire doors, and alterations to the school layout. External M&E works have enabled the implementation of new steps, balustrades, a ramp, landscaping and external lighting.
At Tibshelf Community School, also in Alfreton, Stepnell’s team has finished work to create a fourclassroom block dedicated to the education of students with special educational needs and or disabilities
(SEND). Aiming to foster an increasingly inclusive environment through the works, the construction of the new spacious and conducive teaching spaces is set to accommodate up to 30 students.
Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “These three projects collectively showcase the value of a complete construction partner in supporting an evolving education sector in the East Midlands, with a focus on quality and effectiveness being standout elements throughout.
“Working closely alongside Derbyshire County Council and Concertus, these council-led construction schemes have been developed with the core aim of supporting local authorities across the UK with enhanced learning environments, spurring growth in local communities and supporting all children to aim high and achieve.”
Jack Bradley, Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for SEND and education councillor, said: “We’re committed to investing in creating the school places children and young people need and where they need them across Derbyshire.
“These development projects show our ambition to help create positive futures for every child in Derbyshire and to ensure they feel and are included in the right setting for them, whatever their ability or challenge, including children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
“We’re ambitious for all children to achieve their full educational potentials and we believe the right highquality classroom and learning environment combined with high- quality teaching will help them do just that.”
TORMAX upgrades access to Nottingham University Sports Village
Working directly with Nottingham University, TORMAX recently completed a new automatic entrance into the David Ross Sports Village. This popular facility experiences high levels of pedestrian traffic so TORMAX recommended their robust, technologically advanced iMotion 2202.A door drives to automate the two sets of bi-parting sliding glass doors.
Offering a complete package from door design, manufacture and installation, TORMAX also has an in-house team of qualified service engineers covering the UK. With a Planned Maintenance Contract in place, the new Sports Village entrance will benefit from timely servicing throughout the year, minimising unscheduled downtime.
“TORMAX iMotion drives set the industry standard for longevity,” confirms TORMAX MD, Simon Roberts. “Even a busy entrance such as this, with appropriate servicing, the doors can deliver reliable performance for up to 25 years or more.
“A comprehensive service call-out can quickly pick up any potential problems, avoiding long-term damage to
the system whilst also providing timely maintenance to maximise the performance of key mechanisms.”
Developed with the support of David Ross, Carphone Warehouse founder, the £40m Sports Village opened in 2016 and offers inspirational and accessible sports provision to all. Located under the one roof on the University Park campus, the facility includes one of the largest sports halls in the country, four all-glass squash courts, dedicated archery, fencing and table tennis amenities, martial arts dojo, high performance zones and a sports injury clinic.
Experts in automatic door systems, TORMAX offers tailored solutions for almost any location, including sliding, folding, and revolving doors. Central to their installations is the highly reliable iMotion motor, engineered without common wear-and-tear components like gears and brushes—minimizing maintenance and significantly extending operational life.
For further information please visit www.tormax.co.uk.
Style divides school drama facility with market-leading moveable wall
At an academy school in Staffordshire, Style was contracted to create flexible space in the large drama facility, encouraging the room to be better utilised by allowing more than one class to be scheduled to run at the same time.
The advanced Dorma Huppe Variflex moveable wall is lightweight and smooth to operate, making it easy for staff to quickly split the room into two separate areas, or open it up into a single open-plan space.
With an impressive 55dB acoustic rating, concurrent classes can comfortably take place undisturbed, even if a quieter class is taking place on one side while a noisy drama class is on the other.
Style is the UK’s leading expert in moveable wall systems, offering innovative, flexible space solutions for commercial, educational, and hospitality environments. Renowned for quality, sustainability, and acoustic performance, Style transforms interiors with precisionengineered operable walls tailored to client needs.
“The high acoustic rating of the Variflex makes it a hugely popular solution,” said Steve Williams, Style’s sales director for the midlands.
“Space is often at a premium in the education
sector, making it essential that each area is utilised to maximum efficiency. A Variflex moveable wall ensures classes and activities can run concurrently without disturbing one another.
“We experience ongoing high demand from schools, colleges and universities, all seeking to make the most of their teaching areas, with room flexibility being a key consideration.”
Finished in black on one side and white on the other, the Variflex moveable wall is a stylish and practical addition to the Staffordshire academy’s drama facility.
Greatly improving the longevity of the system and delivering significant savings over time, Variflex panels are manufactured separately to the frame, allowing the panel linings to be easily changed if one becomes damaged or scuffed.
The moveable wall is also a highly sustainable solution, complying with environmental product declaration (EPD) in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN 15804.
Luceco helps school minimise energy bills with led lighting
Luceco lighting has recently taken a Salford school from high-cost fluorescence to low-cost, energy-efficient LED lighting
Working with contractors, Senate Mech Ltd, Luceco planned and designed a full lighting redesign for Albion Academy in Salford, replacing the original fluorescent lighting with future-proof LED lighting.
Choosing LED lighting in schools has been shown to have multiple benefits including reducing visual discomfort, fatigue, and headaches, as well as increasing focus and productivity. Unlike fluorescent lighting, LEDs provide a more uniform distribution of light, minimising glare on screens which in turn helps prevent eyestrain and makes students more comfortable in the classroom environment.
Luceco chose to install a range of suspended and recessed LED lighting throughout the school, including lights from the LuxPanel, Platinum and Elara Bay ranges. The flagship LuxPanel Extra uses backlit LED panels mounted to the modules to the back of the panel’s body, allowing direct downward distribution. The direct light means there is no requirement for a Light Guide Plate (LGP), allowing the panel to offer increased performance and balanced light distribution. They are soft glowing panels that gently illuminate the space whilst offering an ideal level of light for working in
classroom spaces.
Platinum Surface, Platinum Downlight and Elara Bay LEDs were also used in the corridors and communal spaces due to their easy installation and sleek finish.
Julie Ward, Site Manager at Albion Academy, said: “Replacing the lighting in the school has made a huge difference as we’re already saving money and being more energy efficient. One of our school values is ambition, demanding a successful future for our students and striving to be the best version of ourselves. This is a value that we not only share with the people in our building but the building itself and creating a better space for our students will help them achieve their goals.”
Andy Whalley, Luceco Project Manager, said: “Transforming the lighting in Albion Academy from outdated fluorescent tubing to modern LED lighting not only provides a better environment for staff and students, but also makes the school more energy efficient and will save them a lot more money in the long run.
“Using Luceco LEDs which have been designed for quick and easy installation means that replacing lighting can be done efficiently to minimise disruption whilst delivering the best results.”
Performance meets design, with Forbo’s Nuway Connect Plus
Forbo Flooring Systems has expanded its Nuway Connect range of entrance matting, with the addition of Nuway Connect Plus. This range comes with a larger textile insert and reduced aluminium profiles to meet current design trends.
The well-known and respected Nuway brand has over 100 years of heritage, stemming from link mats in the 1920s to the leading brand of entrance flooring that it is today. Across the course of this history, Nuway has been continually updated in line with modern specification requirements, with the launch of Nuway Connect Plus the latest example.
With larger textile inserts and reduced aluminium strips, Nuway Connect Plus is able to accommodate more varied designs, including chevron shaping –typically, a bespoke offering. Forbo’s latest entrance flooring option is made to order, with the ability to create striking designs or logo mats. Available with a choice of four Coral Classic inserts, this allows the primary entrance system to be colour co-ordinated to the secondary matting zone. All inserts can also be replaced on site helping to extend the wear life of the product.
Donna Hannaway, Head of Marketing UK and Ireland from Forbo Flooring Systems, spoke on the new range, saying: “We are committed to providing our customers with a wide variety of high-quality entrance flooring systems that continually meet varying requirements, current market trends and budget levels. With this in mind, the new collection provides exceptional performance, without comprising on design. This
ensures that, no matter the budget or space, we can provide the best possible solution for the job.
“We have also recognised the increased demand for design focused entrance matting, by introducing Nuway Connect Plus Chevron in standard aluminium and black anodised aluminium we are meeting this demand. As an ‘off-the-shelf’ product at a fixed price, it makes specifying chevron entrance matting easier and more accessible for specifiers and end-users alike.”
As an added benefit, all Forbo’s entrance flooring systems come with its Coral inserts, the leading textile matting insert available on the market, as standard. Coral matting is independently proven to stop up to 95% of walked-in dirt and moisture entering the building and reduce cleaning times by up to 65%. This is ideal for large retail, education and office entrances, ensuring that no matter the budget or space, end users are being kept safe, as well as maintaining the aesthetic appearance of a wider flooring scheme.
Nuway Connect Plus is available in 10mm closed construction and entrances in fire sensitive locations can be installed with Coral inserts that meet Bfl-s1 fire regulations. In addition, if installed by a Forbo Entrance System Specialist Installer (FESSI) contractor, the guarantee offered by Forbo on its Nuway Connect range is extended from five years to seven.
Find out more about the Nuway Connect Plus collection, here
Why water saving matters for schools
Water efficiency focused updates rarely make the priority list in school capital works plans. It doesn’t have the immediate visibility of addressing heating bills or the political clout of meeting decarbonisation targets.
But it should
Emma Foster – Head of Marketing and Product at tap and shower manufacturer Methven, explains why the relatively simple act of replacing taps should be a top priority for school leaders this summer.
With budgets increasingly under pressure and a growing range of environmental considerations to factor in, there’s no doubt that the summer of 2025 is a time to focus on cost-effective changes, with a quick ROI and instant impact on sustainability.
According to the Lets Go Zero 2030 campaign - which aims to unite and support UK schools working to become zero carbon by 2023 - simple upgrades such as water-efficient taps and showers, can cut water consumption by 25-30%.
An article published on the campaign’s website claims that replacing regular taps with water-saving models in a school of 1,000 people can save around 1.37 million litres of water per year – which would have a huge financial impact to boot.
It also claims a life-cycle assessment comparing ordinary and water-saving taps found that switching to water-saving fixtures could reduce water usage by 26.2% and energy consumption by 13.6%.
Meanwhile, a Department for Education article called ‘Tips to Reduce Energy and Water Use in Schools’ advocates for the use of water conservation devices including flow restrictors and self-closing taps as ‘simple to apply and economical’, with the ability to
potentially reduce water consumption ‘by half’.
The summer holidays present an opportunity to refresh and rest – but for many schools and education leaders, this also means prioritising background refurbishment or renovation work with a view to doors reopening in September.
In the current financial climate, the conversation around efficiency in schools has rightly focused on energy: solar panels, LED retrofits, smart heating controls.
But water is an equally important preservation focus and water-saving taps and showers they are easy to install, cost effective and pay back quickly.
With this in mind, water efficiency isn’t just good environmental practice. It’s fiscal common sense.
The summer break offers a window that should be used tactically.
Taps, showers, and other high-usage fittings can be upgraded without major disruption.
These aren’t full-scale refurbishments—they’re targeted interventions with measurable outcomes.
Beyond budgets, there’s an educational case for visibility. Water is one of the most tangible utilities for students to understand—one they interact with multiple times a day. A refit program can become part of a broader sustainability narrative, tied into learning outcomes around climate, citizenship, and community.
This is where operational decisions meet cultural leadership. When students see their school acting on sustainability—not just talking about it—the impact goes further.
For more information, visit www.deva-uk.com/ collections/schools or https://uk.methven.com/.
Rooftop solar reduces electricity bill by 66% and inspires students at Thomas Telford
University Technical College
Thomas Telford University Technical College (UTC) has cut its annual electricity costs by 66% with the installation of an innovative DC-optimised rooftop solar system. Designed and installed by renewable energy specialist Kembla Limited using SolarEdge technology, the system is helping the college to meet its high energy demands while also serving as a powerful educational tool for students.
Thomas Telford UTC is situated in the historic Grade II listed building of the former Springfield Brewery in Telford. The solar system was installed as part of a £12.6 million expansion project aimed at creating an energy-efficient campus for students aged 11-19 years.
Funded by a loan from the School Capital Funding Scheme, the system generates approximately 277 MWh of renewable energy annually. Most of this energy is used on-site to power the school’s operations, while any surplus produced during weekends and holidays is sold to the grid, generating additional revenue for the school.
Richard Rhodes, Buildings and Fabrics Manager at Thomas Telford UTC, comments: "As a school specialising in environment, design and build, the solar installation has become an invaluable asset. It not only significantly reduces our electricity costs but also generates new revenue, allowing us to invest more money in student education, upgrading equipment and maintaining our facilities. Beyond the financial benefits, it aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and curriculum enrichment, providing students with an engaging learning tool.”
Kembla Limited was selected for the project based on its successful solar installations at other schools within
the Thomas Telford Multi-Academy Trust. The 318.86 kWp solar system includes 733 solar panels, upgraded to smart panels with SolarEdge Power Optimizers, and three 90 kW SolarEdge inverters. Power Optimizers are installed on each pair of panels to ensure they operate at peak efficiency even if some panels are shaded or soiled. This advanced technology also provides greater flexibility in panel layout, optimising energy production by adapting to the roof's design.
Declan Adams, Managing Director of Kembla Limited, explains: “Thomas Telford UTC was keen to maximise the savings generated by the solar system, but, like many educational facilities, the site’s varying roof angles presented a challenge. Conventional, non-optimised solar systems limit panel placement due to the need for uniform tilt and equal string lengths, which restricts energy production. The SolarEdge system removes these constraints, enabling a customised layout and increased energy output."
Safety was the college’s top priority. The SolarEdge system incorporates embedded safety features such as arc-fault detection and SafeDC, which is designed to reduce voltage levels in solar arrays to a touch-safe 1V, providing safe roof access for maintenance personnel. Additionally, two SolarEdge Firefighter Gateways are integrated with the school’s fire alarm system. These are designed to automatically shut down the solar array if the alarm is triggered, ensuring firefighters can quickly and safely access the roof.
SolarEdge is online at www.solaredge.com/uk.
Less disruption with remote fire safety testing
Siemens is asking specifiers, installers and end-users of fire safety systems to recognise the potential that cloud connectivity offers for maintaining undisturbed spaces through automatic testing of devices.
One of the issues associated with conventional maintenance of fire safety systems is the potential impact on day-to-day operations. This is particularly true of public buildings where the sound of alarms, flashing beacons and the disruption caused by the presence of maintenance technicians can be a problem.
This is one of the main reasons behind the development of systems which can perform certain checks automatically, without the need for any human intervention. Siemens not only offers ASA (Advanced Signal Analysis) detectors which detect fire sources early while distinguishing them from deceptive phenomena, but ones which are also equipped with DFT (Disturbance Free Testing) technology. This has been brought about through advances in smart technology, with IoT-enabled detectors conducting tests automatically. This means that site visits can be confined to annual service inspections, with more frequent automatic checks undertaken remotely (and silently) to provide greater confidence that the system is performing correctly. Cloud connectivity has been fundamental to this, offering the capability to effectively digitalise fire safety.
Secure connectivity
Portals are now available which connect with the cloud, while the Siemens Building X Fire Apps, consisting of the Fire Manager on PC and a cloud suite of mobile apps for iOS and Android mobile, are also available to ensure a smoother commissioning and configuration of systems, as well as providing the opportunity to access information on fire safety sites irrespective of a person’s location. Importantly, these connections to
sites are secure through cloud gateways, providing a range of details regarding the status of the system and replicating the information available from the on-site safety panel. Data gathered from IoT-enabled detectors can include function tests, soiling, and danger levels, all of which can be sent to the cloud to offer invaluable, real-time insights into performance.
Proactive maintenance
Such devices are a major contributor to a proactive rather than a reactive approach to maintenance, continuously and automatically measuring and evaluating the performance of a system or device and thereby both anticipating failures and the need for maintenance checks. They are also useful in automatically testing devices located in areas which are difficult to access such as ceiling voids, secure areas and occupied hotel rooms.
The advent of remote services made possible through digitalisation means issues can be detected remotely, including checking that any changes to a system have not adversely affected its performance. Should a problem be identified, if it cannot be resolved remotely, a maintenance engineer can visit the site armed with information, reducing the time required to investigate. With flexible remote access 24/7 and devices that can guarantee no false alarms, spaces are undisturbed. Fewer site visits also offers significant environmental benefits, with less travelling reducing the use of fuels and lowering CO2 emissions.
For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure - Buildings www.siemens.co.uk/cerberus.
For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure, please see www.siemens.com/smartinfrastructure.
Education sector to miss 2035 decarbonisation target finds new report
JUST 9% of professionals in the education sector believe the UK government’s target to achieve an 81% reduction in emissions by 2035 is achievable. That is according to the latest white paper report from public sector procurement specialist Pagabo, which shines a spotlight on public sector views on decarbonisation.
Based on a nationwide survey of local authority and public sector body representatives, the data also reveals that 55% of respondents feel the UK needs a more realistic timescale, leaving 36% who don’t believe the target is achievable at all.
Pagabo’s new white paper – Driving Decarbonisation in the Public Sector – brings insights from across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, with direct feedback from respondents across central government, local government, the NHS, education, housing and blue light sectors.
Further key findings from more than 170 individuals are:
• 13% say their organisation has no strategy or action plan in place, or any formal commitment to net zero whatsoever
• 54% feel their organisation has made meaningful progress towards decarbonisation during 2024/25
• 54% believe that the government isn’t doing enough to deliver on the UK’s net zero commitments –especially in the local government, social housing and education sectors
• Lack of funding represents the single biggest challenge to decarbonisation overall (80%), followed by competing priorities (71%), the complexities of existing buildings/ estates (64%), the perceived cost (47%) and changing policies and regulations (43%)
• Of the 56% who said their organisation had applied for decarbonisation funding in the past, 69% encountered challenges during the application process
• Installation of energy saving lighting was highlighted as the most common measure being rolled out to address emissions and energy consumption across
the public sector estate (73%), followed by solar panels (63%) and renewable energy sources (51%)
• 75% feel that cost outweighs sustainability ‘most’ or ‘all of the time’
Tom Retallick, senior decarbonisation framework manager at Pagabo, said: “Some of the findings from our survey will not be of great surprise to many – especially when it comes to the biggest challenges the public sector faces around decarbonisation. For example, accessing and maximising funding at the right point has been a talking point for a long time – but the survey helps reveal more details behind this, such as almost half of people being unclear on the funding options available to them, or 35% reporting that secured funding was simply not sufficient to cover required works.
“Despite those challenges, 80% of people are still planning on seeking further funding to support with their decarbonisation projects – showing the need is still high. With 84% of our respondents detailing that government decisions have a medium or high impact on their organisation’s approach to decarbonisation, it’s clear that the public sector needs support. There is a clear lack of knowledge, confidence and planning, which is preventing a unified approach, from defining net zero strategies through to securing funding and delivering impactful decarbonisation projects.
“We believe that some of the complexity associated with decarbonisation is accurate, while much of it is assumed. However, from local authorities and NHS trusts to educational institutions and central government bodies, the responsibility to transform estates into low-carbon, energy-efficient assets is both urgent and profound. We recognise that turning this ambition into action demands more than policy, it requires robust, flexible, and expertly guided procurement pathways that empower progress at pace.”
To read the full white paper, visit us here.
Circuit hosts future of student laundry roundtable with accommodation experts
Laundry is evolving from a basic utility into a service that plays a vital role in student wellbeing, sustainability, and campus experience, according to experts in the industry.
That was the takeaway when Circuit, the UK's largest and longest-established managed laundry specialist, recently welcomed operators and contractors from the student accommodation sector to a roundtable event to explore how laundry can better meet the needs of today’s students.
It was an opportunity for attendees to explore the latest research findings commissioned by Circuit into students’ perceptions of student laundry across UK campuses, and highlighted both current challenges and exciting opportunities for innovation, improved value, and enhanced experiences.
While the research found that one in four students are currently dissatisfied with their campus laundry provision, students cited value for money (94%) and machine availability (93%) as their top priorities, pointing to a strong opportunity for targeted improvements.
Analysing the data, attendees also discussed how pricing models, education, simple and easy to use payment systems, and facility design are being optimised to better meet student needs, with operators sharing success stories of initiatives that have boosted satisfaction and usage.
Led by David Wheatcroft, MD for Circuit, the roundtable was attended by Mark Cordin, Head of Divisional Operations for Fresh; Andrij Korolczuk, Head of Facilities Management for Balfour Beatty; Martin
Wade, Head of Facilities and Sustainability for Now Students; Fathi Mohammed, Director of Operations for Aparto; Ashleigh Dunlop, Head of Operations for Mys Living, and Kirsty Neil, Head of Operations for True Student. Additional Circuit representatives including Robin Urquhart, Key National Accocunt Manager, and Steve Hooper, Area Sales Manager, were also in attendance.
David said: “This roundtable was a vital opportunity to bring the industry together and have an honest, open conversation about what matters to students when it comes to their laundry. The insights we heard, both from our research and from those managing accommodation day-to-day, highlight just how integral laundry is to the student experience. It’s not just about machines; it’s about student engagement, inclusivity, welcoming and safe environments, and delivering good value for money and a quality service.
“For the sector, this is a call to think differently –more collaboratively and more creatively –about how we deliver facilities that are fit for purpose and truly meet student expectations. These conversations will help shape how we move forward as a strategic partner to university accommodation providers, and how we continue to support them in raising standards. We’re proud to be working alongside such engaged partners in shaping a smarter, more student-focused future for laundry.”
Caption (L-R) Fathi Mohammed; Andrij Korolczuk; Kirsty Neil; Ashleigh Dunlop; David Wheatcroft; Steve Hooper; Mark Cordin; Martin Wade; Robin Urquhart
Keeping schools safe from fire
Advances in digital technology by Robert Yates - Head of Building Products Fire Safety UK, Siemens
Fire detection in schools and other educational establishments is a fundamental requirement. There are more than 32,000 schools operating in the UK, with some 2,300 fires recorded between 2015 and 2020; 47 of those schools were destroyed. The basic systems still seen in
many older educational premises were often fitted at a time when there was less awareness of the potential consequences of a fire, in addition to there being a perceived lack of a real threat. Many were also installed by local councils suffering from budgetary constraints and while those budgetary pressures remain for local authorities, what
has changed is the proliferation of schools that now look after their own budgets, increasingly with other educational establishments under the umbrella of a MAT (Multi Academy Trust) and directly funded by the DfE rather than the local authority.
Some of the older fire systems have often only been maintained to the basic minimum relevant legal
requirements. However, many government authorities, both national and local, have placed a greater emphasis on the value of schooling and, as a result, education has seen significant investment in building stock, equipment and facilities.
There is an argument that the fire risk in schools has increased, particularly in view of the significant growth in the use of electronic equipment. Also, while illicit cigarette smoking by students may be on the decline, a recent survey highlighted that around 15% of children aged 11 to 15 and more than a third of those aged 16 to 17 have vaped. The fire risks posed by vapes and their lithium-ion batteries is a topic which has been widely recognised in the fire protection industry.
The regulations
‘Building Bulletin 100: Design for Fire Safety in Schools (BB100)’, along with Approved Document B (ADB), are the documents which underpin fire safety in education. All schools need to have the means to raise an alarm in the event of a fire and adopting a fire detection and alarm system installed to BS 5839-1 by a third-party certified company provides confidence that not only will a fire be detected, but it
will also provide sufficient time for an orderly evacuation – a particularly important factor in a school environment. In larger schools, this could involve a voice alarm system to support the audible alarm signal with verbal instructions.
Undisturbed maintenance
To ensure that a fire detection system is operating correctly, a maintenance programme is required. One of the issues associated with conventional maintenance of fire safety systems is the potential impact on day-to-day operations. This is particularly true of educational facilities where the sound of alarms, flashing beacons and the disruption caused by the presence of maintenance technicians can be a problem.
This is one of the main reasons behind the development of systems which can perform certain checks automatically, without the need for any human intervention. Siemens not only offers ASA (Advanced Signal Analysis) detectors which detect fire sources early while distinguishing them from deceptive phenomena, but ones which are also equipped with DFT (Disturbance Free Testing) technology. This has been brought about through
advances in smart technology, with IoT-enabled detectors conducting tests automatically. This means that site visits can be confined to annual service inspections, with more frequent automatic checks undertaken remotely (and silently) to provide greater confidence that the system is performing correctly. Cloud connectivity has been fundamental to this, offering the capability to effectively digitalise fire safety.
Secure connectivity
Portals are now available which connect with the cloud, while the Siemens Building X Fire Apps, consisting of the Fire Manager on PC and a cloud suite of mobile apps for iOS and Android mobile, are also available to ensure a smoother commissioning and configuration of systems, as well as providing the opportunity to access information on fire safety sites irrespective of a person’s location. Importantly, these connections to sites are secure through cloud gateways, providing a range of details regarding the status of the system and replicating the information available from the on-site safety panel. Data gathered from IoT-enabled detectors can include function tests, soiling, and danger
levels, all of which can be sent to the cloud to offer invaluable, real-time insights into performance.
Proactive maintenance
Such devices are a major contributor to a proactive rather than a reactive approach to maintenance, continuously and automatically measuring and evaluating the performance of a system or device and thereby both anticipating failures and the need for maintenance checks. They are also useful in automatically testing devices located in areas which are difficult to access such as ceiling voids.
The advent of remote services made possible through digitalisation means issues can be detected remotely, including checking that any changes to a system have not adversely affected its performance. Should a problem be identified, if it cannot be resolved remotely, a maintenance engineer can visit the site armed with information, reducing the time required to investigate. With flexible remote access 24/7 and devices that can guarantee no
false alarms, spaces are undisturbed. Fewer site visits also offers significant environmental benefits, with less travelling reducing the use of fuels and lowering CO2 emissions.
Digital advances
In addition to the threat to life, there are also the considerable disruptive and financial consequences posed by fire. The very real threat to every school if fire destroys all or part of the buildings is the loss of its ability to carry out the education of its pupils. Even if the school is out of action only temporarily, the inconvenience and problems caused to the parents and staff in their everyday lives is significant enough, but the unsettling and distracting changes to the children’s routines may well have a detrimental effect on their education. In terms of financial losses, data from insurers Zurich calculated some £27million of damage caused by fire from 20202023.
The development of IOT-enabled systems offers potential for further improving the protection of
educational facilities from fire. The cloud connectivity now available offers significant advantages. In terms of programming of a fire safety system, this can be done off-site. Device, zone section and area information can all be programmed from a remote location, as can evacuation and control zones. Beyond the initial system set-up, it also enables a proactive rather than a reactive approach to maintenance, continuously and automatically measuring and evaluating performance and thereby anticipating failures and the need for maintenance checks.
Fire detection technology has moved on significantly from the days of systems based on the simple activation of manual call points. Minimising the number of fire related incidents and the way in which a response is managed in the event of an incident is an important priority in educational facilities and one to which automatic fire detection systems can make a significant contribution.
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Electronic access control
Ensuring safe escape door compliance in schools
Paul Nicholas at Abloy UK discusses the importance of escape door compliance in schools, and specifying the correct electronic access control solution to ensure life safety.
Safeguarding students, staff, and visitors in schools is a top priority, however, one crucial yet often overlooked aspect is ensuring the
compliance of escape doors. There are many reasons why a school may want to restrict movement across a facility.
Controlling the misuse of perimeter escape doors and the need to prevent pupils and students from having completely free movement in and out of buildings is an understandable requirement,
but compliance must always be maintained. Escape doors make up a significant proportion of school doors, with classrooms, offices and final escape doors often forming part of the escape route plan.
The purpose of an escape door is to allow free egress for all persons at any time, allowing swift evacuation in the event of an emergency.
These types of doors in schools are more than just an exit in the case of fire - they are a lifeline during emergencies involving chemicals, intruders, or other critical threats. Therefore, failure to meet fire safety and escape regulations poses significant risks, including the loss of life. But, with the increasing integration of electronic access control systems, many schools are inadvertently compromising the compliance of these doors.
Compliance challenges
Often, when a school introduces electronic locks and access control, the specific requirements for maintaining escape door compliance are not followed. What was previously a compliant escape door can very easily become non-compliant because of incorrect electronic locking choices.
A simple error, such as adding electronic locks without maintaining mechanical escape mechanisms, can transform a previously compliant door into a hazard. Therefore, when electronic access control is deployed, it is critical to understand how to maintain compliance, for life safety.
The Fire Safety Order 2005 places legal responsibility on those with day-to-day control of a building, often the head teacher, to ensure that fire safety standards are met. Escape doors, forming an essential part of an emergency evacuation plan, must
comply with BS EN 179/1125/13637
to ensure all users can exit the premises efficiently in an emergency.
With better awareness of the standards and legislation relating to the compliance requirements, we can limit the risk of non-compliant solutions being adopted and therefore maintain the welfare of all.
Implementing compliant electronic access control
When schools implement electronic access control systems, especially on perimeter doors or key internal doors, maintaining compliance can be complex and challenging.
Non-compliant solutions, such as electrically powered magnetic locks (known as maglocks) require additional electronic switching, which could turn escape routes into
potential bottlenecks. If mechanical escape functions, like panic bars or handle mechanisms, are removed or bypassed, it endangers the safety of all building occupants.
An escape door should be controlled and remain controlled by a mechanical handle or bar mechanism fitted to the door in the direction of escape. If the escape door is fitted with electronic access control, then the mechanical means of escape needs to be maintained, and only the entry side of the door should be electronically controlled.
An escape door should not be fitted with electronically controlled Entry and Exit readers unless compliant to BS EN 13637. Failure to comply, could prohibit escape by persons without a means of operating the doors.
Technology has made significant advances in managing school safety, and solutions like intelligent keys and wireless handles can provide flexibility and security while maintaining compliance.
Intelligent keys, for instance, offer mechanical and electronic functionality, allowing for real-time access adjustments without the need for extensive cabling or door alterations. This not only reduces installation costs but also ensures that lost keys no longer pose a security risk, as they can be easily deactivated.
Additionally, camera-enabled door entry technology enables schools to manage visitor access through live video and audio, offering a complete, secure visitor management system.
Guidance and education
Maintaining escape door compliance is an ongoing responsibility that evolves as regulations and technologies change. At Abloy UK, we are committed to raising awareness
about the importance of escape door compliance and helping educational institutions meet these stringent legal requirements.
Our initiative, REVIEW (Responsibility, Education, Verification, Inspection, Expertise, Ways and Means), focuses on delivering expertise and practical support to those responsible for building safety, particularly school head teachers and facility managers.
We also provide a range of CPDaccredited training programs through the Abloy Academy, ensuring that the relevant responsible personnel remain up to date on the latest safety standards and practices. From the basics of BS EN 179, 1125, and 13637 compliance, to advanced courses in electronic access control, we provide the tools and knowledge required to meet and exceed regulatory requirements.
Guidance and assessment services are also available to help schools navigate these complexities. Our free on-site assessment provides
a clear report on your school’s current compliance status, while our comprehensive training equips your team with the necessary knowledge to ensure compliance is maintained over time.
Ultimately, escape door compliance is not just a regulatory checkbox, it is a life safety issue. Ensuring that your school meets the highest safety standards protects lives and embeds trust within your school community.
We encourage school leaders to take a proactive approach to maintaining safety standards. With the support of training programs, advanced technological solutions, and on-site assessments, schools can ensure their facilities remain compliant, safeguarding both the well-being of students and the institution’s reputation.
For more information or to arrange an assessment, visit our dedicated page on escape door compliance in schools here
The next frontier in modernising cleaning operations for education by Francis Lyons, CEO at ECAT Smart auditing
At the intersection of high expectations and sometimes limited resources, the education sector has long faced a myriad of challenges when it comes to cleaning operations. But smart auditing is helping to modernise things. That’s because, as institutions strive for excellence in both education and environment, one operational pillar is being reimagined: cleaning. In today’s schools, colleges, and universities, smart auditing is revolutionising cleaning operations, making them more transparent,
efficient, sustainable, and ultimately more aligned with health and safety goals.
This transformation is powered by data. Specifically, data captured in real-time via smart auditing platforms that deliver consistent, comparable, and actionable insights. And when implemented effectively, these solutions go far beyond compliance, actively supporting performance, morale, and sustainability.
In this article, ECAT CEO Francis Lyons explains how smart auditing
is modernising cleaning, ensuring the right emphasis on health and safety, and enabling a better overall performance in educational environments.
Activity Tracking: Visibility into the Day-to-Day
One of the biggest wins from smart auditing is its ability to track where, when, and how cleaning tasks are performed. With the use of mobile devices and cloud-based platforms, cleaning operatives log activities in real-time, creating a live map of site
“Activity tracking not only gives managers a factual account of what’s been done, but it also enables them to verify that key high-risk zones –such as toilets, canteens, and science labs – receive the attention they require,” said Francis.
This visibility reduces uncertainty, promotes accountability, and supports both reactive and planned maintenance strategies. Schools can prioritise resources where they are needed most, improving student and staff wellbeing in the process.
Moreover, consistent tracking provides insight into task frequency and duration, which can be used to adjust schedules in response to changing requirements throughout the school year, such as during exam seasons or peak flu months.
Resource Management: Doing More with Less
Smart auditing also plays a vital role in resource optimisation. By monitoring how long teams spend on each task and tracking consumables used – from disinfectants to paper towels – institutions can better manage budgets and reduce waste.
“Instead of anecdotal estimates, managers get hard data on workforce utilisation and material consumption. This insight helps make informed procurement decisions and fine-tune operational strategies,” said Francis.
When data shows that a certain area takes longer to clean or uses
more resources than expected, this prompts investigations that often lead to process improvements or retraining.
Additionally, data from resource tracking can support more accurate budgeting and funding requests, which is particularly beneficial for schools operating within tight financial parameters.
Quality Assurance: Proof of Presence, Proof of Performance
In education, as in other industries, proving that cleaning has occurred is critical. That’s where near-field communication (NFC) technology enters the picture.
NFC tags, like the tech used
in contactless payments, can be discreetly placed throughout educational facilities. Operatives scan the tags during cleaning rounds, creating a time-stamped log of activity. They can also upload images or notes as evidence of quality.
“NFC doesn’t just provide proof of presence, it builds trust, supports compliance, and raises standards by enabling operatives to take pride in their work,” said Francis.
This digital trail enhances transparency and reassures stakeholders that hygiene protocols are followed rigorously, which is increasingly important to parents and carers, school staff, and to regulatory bodies.
Trend and Risk Analysis: Seeing the Bigger Picture
While moment-to-moment tracking is crucial, smart auditing’s real power lies in aggregating data over time. With consistent, standardised reporting, managers can identify trends, flag anomalies, and spot both risks and opportunities.
“The insights gained from this level of data analysis allow decisionmakers to replicate what works and fix what doesn’t. It enables evidencebased decisions rather than gut-feel guesses,” said Francis.
For instance, if multiple schools report recurring issues in science labs, for example, cleaning schedules or team training can be reassessed collectively, saving time and resources.
This type of trend analysis is
also essential in preparedness and response planning, where having historical data can inform contingency strategies quickly and accurately.
Supporting Sustainability Goals
Smart auditing is also proving instrumental in helping educational institutions achieve their sustainability targets. By going paperless and moving audits to the cloud, carbon footprints are reduced. Data-driven operations also reduce overuse of chemicals and consumables, and support the adoption of more environmentally friendly alternatives.
“Some systems have demonstrated up to 60% savings in review time and up to 30% boosts in operational efficiency. But beyond the numbers, it’s about building sustainable habits into the daily routine,” said Francis.
Sustainability also plays a role in student engagement. Increasingly, students expect their institutions to demonstrate environmental
responsibility, and smart auditing provides a practical, visible way of aligning operational processes with those values.
Case Study: Real Life Lessons from the Field
When Sodexo deployed a smart auditing platform across two schools and a sports pavilion, the results were immediate. Hotspots were quickly identified, inconsistencies corrected, and best practices replicated. Perhaps most notably, the cleaning teams felt more empowered and received positive feedback from both students and staff.
“The technology eliminated ambiguity and gave us real data to work with,” observed one Sodexo advisor. “At the click of a button, we had six months' worth of insights to guide our decisions.”
This kind of digital empowerment is particularly valuable in educational settings where transparency and accountability underpin trust between administrators, parents and carers, and staff.
Looking Ahead: Smart Cleaning for Smart Schools
As educational institutions continue to evolve, so too must the services that support them. With smart auditing technology, cleaning operations can become a key driver of safety, performance, and reputation.
“This is more than a tech upgrade, it’s a mindset shift – one that values data, transparency, and continuous improvement. Smart auditing solutions help schools deliver cleaner, safer environments where students can thrive,” said Francis.
For the education sector, school leaders and facilities managers alike, the message is clear: the future of educational cleaning is smart, connected, and evidence driven. As the demands on schools continue to grow, solutions that deliver operational clarity and continuous improvement will be the ones that truly stand the test of time.
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Why smart operators plan their winter maintenance now Winter ready?
As we enjoy the longer days and warmer weather, it’s easy to forget that winter will be here before we know it. Spring is the ideal time to get ahead, ensuring you invest in your fleet well before the sub-zero temperatures hit and heavy snowfall arrives.
Advance planning is key to keeping operations running smoothly. Investing in the right equipment and scheduling proactive servicing now means fewer headaches when the harsh weather hits.
Kärcher’s range of implements carrier such as the MIC 35, MIC 42, and MC 150 are all designed to take on winter’s toughest challenges. Whether you are cleaning city streets or ensuring public spaces remain safe, these machines deliver the power, precision, and reliability needed to tackle whatever winter brings.
A Tool for Every Winter Task
MIC 35: Compact & Versatile
For those working in tight urban
spaces, the MIC 35’s compact design and high manoeuvrability make it an ideal municipal machine. Its compatibility with snowploughs and spreaders ensures effective snow and ice management.
The intuitive implement carrier features a clever, quick-change system, a comfort cab with a panoramic view, and an engine that significantly undercuts STAGE V emissions limits. Whether you’re clearing snow from pedestrian pathways or tackling car parks, it offers flexibility and efficiency, while
easily moving loads over a tonne in capacity.
The MIC 35’s common rail engine, with its diesel particulate filter, ensures emissions values stay well below STAGE V standard, and its low fuel consumption enhances its environmental credentials.
What’s more, a complete retrofit from sweeper to winter service – and vice versa – is, in fact, completed in a matter of minutes. Saving time and money, this efficient transformation is true of the majority of Kärcher’s municipal machines. This gives flexibility for operators – whether you are hiring or purchasing the implements for the winter season, your machines can be used all year round.
MIC 42: Power and Performance
Striking the perfect balance between strength and agility, the MIC 42 is the go-to option for operators who need more power without compromising
on manoeuvrability.
Combining the attributes of an implement carrier and vacuum sweeper, the MIC 42 delivers a high engine and driver performance (42 HP, 130Nm torque), and can move a tonne load capacity effortlessly with high hydraulic power. At just 1.08 metres wide, it remains compact and manoeuvrable.
With increased payload capacity, enhanced traction, and superior visibility, the MIC 42 allows you to clear larger areas quickly and safely. Thanks to high quality components, maintenance intervals are 500 to 1,000 hours, ensuring reliable performance throughout the year and changing seasons. This, in turn, reduces the risk to the public – something of great benefit for operators working with government bodies, who are required to ensure they can do as much as ‘reasonably practical’, to mitigate risks.
Like the MIC 35, the MIC 42 is
built with sustainability in mind, its rail diesel engine, including diesel particle filter, achieves exhaust emissions values well below the standard, making it perfect for urban green zones.
Both MIC 42 and MIC 35 offer exceptional flexibility when it comes to changing implements, thanks to a standardised coupling triangle with a lifting and lowering device positioned at the front. This adaptability makes them a reliable partner all year round for those across a broad range of industries.
MC 150: Heavy-duty winter specialist
When extreme winter conditions call for serious power, the MC 150 rises to the challenge. Designed for high-demand operations, this model boasts a powerful engine and high-performance hydraulics to tackle deep snow and high-volume grit spreading.
The MC 150 is a comfortable, economical multi-purpose sweeper featuring a two-seater cab and all-wheel drive in the 3.5 t class. Ideal for the winter season, the MC 150 also comes with winter-proof equipment features, such as heated seats and heated windscreen, guaranteeing perfect vision at any time - drivers won’t want to leave the cab.
Suitable for large scale municipal and industrial settings, the MC 150 includes an advanced suction and sweeping system to keep roads and pathways clear of slush and debris.
The hydrostatic drive system ensures smooth and reliable operating even in slippery conditions, while its large hopper capacity extends operating times.
Additionally, the machine is fuel efficient and eco-friendly with emissions well below STAGE V standards.
Maintenance
While having the right equipment is crucial, keeping it in top condition ensures peak performance when it’s needed most.
With decades of German engineering, Kärcher machines are built for durability and efficiency and the comprehensive maintenance service, ensures they do just that.
A well-maintained machine is a reliable machine. Servicing your fleet now ensures you’re not caught off guard when winter arrives unexpectedly. Regular serving optimises machine performance,
keeps your operations smooth and effective, and helps avoid unexpected repairs and breakdowns.
Get ahead of the curve
Winter may seem like a distant concern, but those who plan now will reap the benefits when the first snow falls. The right equipment and proactive maintenance can mean the difference between seamless operations and costly downtime. Moreover, with the option to hire implements, Spring and Summer is the ideal time to enquire about hiring winter implements, giving you use of the tools exactly when you need them. It’s time to take control of the season and prepare in advance to make sure your fleet is winter-ready.
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Staff sanctuary
Six ways to make a school staff room more inviting
The staff room should act as a sanctuary for teachers and school staff—a place to recharge, catch up with colleagues, and take a breather from the bustling school environment. Creating a welcoming, comfortable staff room is essential for maintaining staff morale, improving well-being, and boosting overall productivity.
With that in mind, we’ve put together six ways to make a school
staff room more inviting. They are all practical tips, designed to make your staff room feel more relaxing, welcoming and functional.
1. Provide comfortable seating
A comfortable seating arrangement is the foundation of any inviting staff room. Staff members spend long hours standing throughout the school day, so they need a place where they can sit and relax during breaks. It’s also important to avoid the airport
department lounge look.
• Ergonomic seating: Choose chairs and sofas that provide proper support and comfort. Ergonomically designed furniture can help reduce fatigue and prevent back and neck strain, especially during those welldeserved breaks.
• Create seating zones: Consider setting up different seating areas to accommodate different needs. For example, why not consider a
quiet corner for those who prefer solitude, and a more communal area for group conversations and socializing?
2. Stock the room with refreshments
Having convenient access to snacks and drinks can make a world of difference in how inviting a staff room feels. Installing a vending machine with a wide variety of products is a simple yet effective way to ensure that staff can quickly grab a snack or drink without leaving the building.
Some great vending options include:
• Coffee and tea: A high-quality coffee machine or a vending machine that offers freshly brewed coffee, tea, and hot chocolate is a must. Caffeine breaks can be an essential part of staying alert and energized during a long school day.
• Healthy snacks: In addition to treats, consider stocking the machine with healthy options.
• Hydration options: Water, energy and sports drinks are ideal for
staying hydrated throughout the day, especially in busy school environments.
By providing easy access to refreshments, staff can recharge and refuel throughout the working day.
3. Create a relaxing atmosphere
The ambiance of the staff room is crucial in making the space feel inviting. While functionality is important, the design and atmosphere should prioritize relaxation and comfort.
Consider these design tips:
• Soothing colours: opt for neutral or calming colour schemes, such as soft blues, greens, or earthy tones. These colours create a peaceful environment that encourages relaxation.
• Adequate lighting: Ensure the room is well-lit but avoid harsh fluorescent lighting. Natural light, soft overhead lighting, or floor lamps can make the room feel warmer and more welcoming.
• Decorative touches: Add artwork,
plants, or inspirational posters to give the room character. Small details like cosy rugs, cushions, and wall décor can make a big difference in creating a home-like feel.
4. Keep it clean and organized
Keep the staff room organized and clean by incorporating practical storage solutions and creating a routine for maintaining cleanliness.
• Storage: Provide cupboards, shelves, or cabinets for storing personal items, supplies, and communal resources. Keeping the space tidy will make it more inviting and prevent the room from feeling overcrowded.
5. Promote socialization with breaktime amenities
While the primary purpose of a staff room is for rest, it’s also an important space for fostering communication and connection between staff members. Adding small amenities that encourage socialization can enhance the room’s sense of community.
• A communal table: Set up a large table where staff can gather for meals, casual meetings, or discussions. It provides a central hub for social interaction and bonding during break times.
• Games and activities: Provide board games, puzzles, or books that staff can enjoy during downtime. Having fun activities available can help staff unwind and recharge while encouraging team building. They are even better enjoyed with your favourite snacks and drinks from the vending machines in place.
6. Offer convenient vending solutions Installing a vending machine specifically tailored to the needs of your school’s staff is a great way to make the staff room more inviting. At Westways Vending, we offer vending machines that can be customized
Alan Macklin
to provide a variety of snacks, beverages, and even essential items.
• Variety of options: Stock the vending machine with a wide range of products that cater to all preferences—healthy snacks, indulgent treats, and hot and cold drinks.
• Cashless payments: Our vending machines accept contactless payments, making it easier and faster for staff to grab what they need without having to search for cash.
• Low-maintenance machines: Our vending machines are designed for easy maintenance and restocking, ensuring that staff always have access to their favourite items.
A well-stocked and accessible vending machine adds another level of convenience, making the staff room more functional and enjoyable.
A well-designed, inviting staff room is more than just a place to take breaks—it’s a space where school staff can recharge, connect, and unwind. By focusing on comfort, providing convenient access to refreshments, and fostering a sense of community, you can create a staff room that feels welcoming and supportive for everyone.
At Westways Vending, we’re here to help you take your staff room to the next level with our vending solutions. From healthy snacks to premium coffee machines, our offerings ensure that your staff room is equipped with everything it needs to become the perfect retreat for your school’s hardworking team.
To learn more about how we can enhance your school’s staff room with our tailored vending services visit www.westwaysvending.co.uk.
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• Architecturally designed & inspirational learning environments. Our buildings can be visually indistinguishable from traditionally built schools.
• Utilising SEISMIC platform design and achieving a high level of PMV.
• Customised to client specifications and needs. From glazing to wall cladding finishes; even teaching spaces can be configured.
• Repeatable classroom designs, creating efficiency through standardisation. Standardisation is key to driving greater efficiency throughout all aspects of the project and delivery.
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How to safely integrate AI in schools according to the experts Bridging AI divide
As AI risks widening the digital divide, secure and well-chosen digital tools can help bridge it responsibly.
As artificial intelligence reshapes classrooms across the world, the debate has shifted from whether to adopt the technology to how to deploy it responsibly, fairly, and with impact. With the AI-driven edtech market on track to hit $32.27 billion by 2030, the pressure to get the rollout right is strong.
Experts caution that countries that delay introducing AI risk widening the digital skills gap. According to UNESCO, rapid progress in AI has made the digital gap even bigger,
leading to what many now call the "AI divide." This can leave students less competitive internationally and exacerbate existing inequalities, particularly in regions with limited access to technology and training.
Some countries are already taking decisive steps to address these risks and bridge the digital divide. Lithuania is putting nexos.ai at the center of a major new plan. Starting this September, every secondary school in the country will receive free access to nexos.ai – an all-in-one AI platform already used by global tech companies, with a goal of helping school communities use AI tools in a safe and private way.
“We are proud that nexos.ai can
help in making advanced AI tools both accessible and safe for everyone in the school community,” said Tomas Okmanas, the co-founder of nexos.ai. “By bringing a selection of advanced AI tools in one intuitive and secure window, we help teachers focus on teaching and students on learning. Our goal is to empower schools to innovate confidently, knowing that security and privacy is built in from the ground up.”
Why AI Integration Is Important
AI is already changing education through the personalization of learning, automating administrative tasks, and giving teachers deeper understanding of student progress.
Nearly half of school administrators now use the technology daily, according to survey data. The main reasons are cutting administrative load (42%), adapting lessons to individual needs (25%), and boosting engagement (18%). The result is more time for teaching, less time lost to routine tasks.
Around 44% of children actively engage with generative AI, with 54% using it for schoolwork and/ or homework. According to high school educators, improved student engagement is among the top benefits of AI use.
The implications of successful AI integration stretch beyond education. By 2030, 86% of employers say AI and information processing will significantly change how they operate. That’s driving a surge in demand for skills like data analysis, cybersecurity, and digital literacy.
Training, Ethics, and Access: The Real AI Homework
Successfully integrating AI into education means going far beyond installing tools – it requires building
digital skills, protecting privacy, and ensuring fair access. According to Žilvinas Girėnas, AI security expert at nexos.ai, this challenge is as much about people as it is about technology.
“AI in education raises real questions about ethics, safety, and equal opportunity. Without the right groundwork, we risk amplifying the very divides we hope to close. It’s not enough to hand out tools. Students and teachers must trust that these tools handle data responsibly, and that what happens in the AI system stays confidential. Security guardrails, careful handling of uploaded content, and clear use policies are now essential parts of digital literacy,” said Girėnas.
He’s identified several key steps that stand out as particularly vital in Lithuania’s strategy.
Choose secure, privacy-compliant AI tools.
“In education, the boundary between helpful AI and risky AI is thin. AI tools must not only meet privacy standards but also guard
against accidental exposure of student data. Uploading sensitive or confidential content must be shielded by guardrails – automated or manual – that make such errors nearly impossible. Without these protections, trust in AI breaks down fast, especially in schools.”
Invest in teacher training.
“Then it’s important to invest in professional development for teachers. We see that hands-on training and ongoing support are crucial for building AI literacy and confidence among educators and students.”
Integrate AI across the curriculum.
“Update the curriculum to incorporate AI concepts across subjects – not just computer science. This helps students learn how AI works in different areas, like math, science, and even history or art. When AI is part of everyday lessons, students can see how it connects to their lives and understand better how to use it safely and smartly. This way, everyone gets a chance to learn
about AI, not just those who study computers.”
Set clear learning goals and assessment.
“Setting clear learning objectives and assessment criteria is also important. This includes defining what students should know and be able to do with AI, from critical thinking to ethical awareness.”
Encourage practical, creative use.
“It’s right to let students explore and create with AI, but they also need to understand the boundaries. Where does responsible use end and risk begin? Teaching this early, through real project work and case studies, prepares students not just to use AI but to question it, challenge it, and improve it. This mindset is as important as any technical skill.”
Evaluate and adapt for equity.
“One of the greatest risks with AI in schools is that gaps get wider, not smaller. Urban schools may advance faster than rural ones, and students with devices at home may outpace those without. Programs must include regular impact reviews to
check who is left behind – and adjust resources, training, and support until no group is at a disadvantage.”
Cybersecurity at the Core Lithuania’s nationwide AI-in-schools program puts safety first as the tools it offers are built for secure, responsible use in the classroom. It echoes what experts from global organizations have been saying: successfully bringing AI into education takes more than just handing out devices – it requires thoughtful integration into how students learn.
Cybersecurity experts see this as a positive step forward. Aras Nazarovas, security researcher at Cybernews, notes, “While the use of AI in schools is still a controversial topic, a more secure implementation, such as via tools like nexos.ai allows for better auditing, and control. This approach enables safer AI use by protecting student data and ensuring that AI wouldn’t be abused to handle tasks that students were meant to do themselves (homework, tests, assignments).”
Recent years have shown why this matters. Lithuania, like many
countries, has seen a rise in cyber incidents. It recorded 63% more cyber incidents in 2024 than in 2023, partially due to a better understanding of the need to report cyber incidents. In response and in line with the EU’s NIS2 directive, Lithuania is currently tightening cybersecurity in its education sector. From October 2024, all public institutions, including schools, must connect via the state’s secure data network and appoint cybersecurity managers.
Regular staff training is mandatory, and institutions are required to implement risk-based technical safeguards. The Ministry of Education is also rolling out new guidelines for safe AI use in classrooms, with a focus on digital literacy and teacher upskilling.
“Lithuania’s approach shows that you can open doors to innovation without leaving security behind. With the right habits, safeguards, and ongoing attention, schools can make the most of AI – while keeping students’ data and futures protected,” concluded Nazarovas.
As Europe’s leading supplier, installer and integrator of digital television and audio visual equipment, Airwave can deliver your vision. With a presence in all key sectors including: healthcare, education, retail & leisure, stadia, prisons and transport, Airwave’s customer base is diverse.
www.airwave.tv
The ASSA ABLOY Group is the global leader in access solutions. Our offering covers products and services related to openings, such as locks, doors, gates and entrance automation solutions. This also includes expertise in controlling identities with keys, cards, tags, mobile and biometric identity verification systems.
www.assaabloy.com
Club Car boasts nearly 60 years of industry-leading innovation and design, initially focused on golf cars and then expanding to commercial utility vehicles and personal-use transportation.
www.clubcar.com
As the UK’s market-leading provider of technology led compliance and risk management solutions, our purpose is to help organisations be safer, healthier, and stronger. Our guide explains a range of measures and safety commitments so that universities are fully prepared and to keep the spread of the virus under control.
www.alcumusgroup.com
Buildings today don’t only provide a safe, functional place for people to live and work. They can also cater for – and even respond to – their needs, while helping them work more efficiently and sustainably. At Bosch Building Technologies, we are at the forefront of these new developments.
www.boschbuildingtechnologies.com
Our education solutions are developed from the ground up to increase campus security and safety while extending the capabilities of student, faculty and staff ID badges. Our solutions can be used for convenient access to buildings, computer login, cashless vending and campus activities.
www.hidglobal.com
Hysopt is unique design software that helps building managers get the most out of their heating and cooling systems. In collaboration with installation companies and engineering firms, we can cut your annual energy bill by 10 to 50%.
www.hysopt.com
LapSafe® created its first products to meet the needs of the education market and although we have since expanded into many other sectors, this remains our largest and most established area of expertise. Our products have been thoroughly tested by every type of education and academic institution
www.lapsafe.com
Originally founded in 1921, the company known today as Mitsubishi Electric has almost 100 years of experience in providing reliable, high quality products and support to installers, specifiers, corporate clients and general consumers all over the world.
https://les.mitsubishielectric.co.uk
From its inception in 2001, SALTO was created with one objective: to devise a world-class access control system that was simple to use and extremely efficient, giving users the ability to control all their access needs and secure all their doors without complex and expensive wiring.
www.saltosystems.com
As a trusted advisor and reliable partner, as a system integrator, service provider and a product vendor, Siemens offers energy-efficient, safe and secure buildings and infrastructure. With our people, our global footprint and our technical expertise, it's our passion helping you to create the perfect place – your perfect place.
www.siemens.com
Award-winning AV integrator, providing bespoke AV solutions with a strong company ethos, collegiality and partnership approach. Evolving with developments in AV technology allows Strive AV to deliver excellence across education, corporate, health and retail environments, providing AV solutions which transform communication and enhance end user’s experiences.
www.striveav.com
With more and more consideration being given to energy usage and the increasing implementation of green legislation, PumpSmart Limited is able to assist with the identification of areas where real energy savings can be made. New products, aimed at energy consumption reduction, are constantly entering the market with potential to improve existing installations.
www.pumpsmart.co.uk
We drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies to realize the full efficiency and sustainability opportunities for your establishment. We provide end-point to cloud integration connecting products, controls, software and services.
https://www.se.com
Simpli-Fi are expert at helping educational establishments get the most out of wireless technology. We implement bespoke, reliable, scalable, flexible, and secure enterprise-grade, managed wireless networks that connect unlimited devices anywhere on site.
www.simpli-fi.co.uk
Veolia Water Technologies UK (VWT UK) is a leading water treatment solutions and services provider with a unique global presence and 160 years of experience. VWT UK strives to provide innovative solutions such as the new PURELAB Quest compact water purification unit that can generate Type I, II and III water.
www.veoliawatertechnologies.co.uk
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