The importance of retrofitting schools cannot be understated, with ageing educational buildings often becoming inefficient, costly to maintain and unfit for teaching purposes. Carrying out these improvements has never been more important due to the stretched budgets of schools nationwide. Failure to retrofit your properties could only increase your chances of having to complete expensive repairs or pay for unnecessarily high utility bills.
Our guide covers everything you, as a school leader, need to know about retrofitting, allowing you to make more informed decisions about how to prioritise your funds. Continue reading to learn more.
What is Retrofitting?
Retrofitting is the process of making improvements to existing buildings to enhance their performance, sustainability and functionality. Common methods used include making structural upgrades, installing energy-efficient systems or completing modifications to meet new regulations.
In the context of educational buildings, retrofitting will focus on adapting the estate to meet the needs of students, teachers and support staff, while also improving cost and environmental efficiencies.
How Can I Carry Out Educational Building Retrofitting?
A comprehensive assessment of your school buildings will be needed to understand their current conditions, which will include:
- Building surveys and energy audits to identify problems
- Setting retrofit goals that align with budgets and student needs
- Design and planning using architects and engineers
- Selecting sustainable materials and technologies
- Engaging with contractors to carry out the works
- Ensuring minimal disruption to pupils and staff members
What Are The School Retrofitting Funding Options?
Several funding routes are available for school retrofitting, including government schemes and grants, local authority support, public-private partnerships, and regular budgets. Our team can provide further information about your options, so contact us to learn more about how you can fund your project.
The Benefits of Retrofitting Educational Buildings
- Improved energy efficiency
- Reduced operational costs
- Enhanced comfort and wellbeing for staff and students
- Better indoor air quality and natural light
- Reduced carbon footprint, supporting your climate goals
- Increased building lifespan
How Can I Retrofit My School?
An effective retrofit of a school should always start by contacting education property professionals, such as Eddisons, who will take time to understand your requirements.
A detailed inspection will then take place, followed by the development of a phased implementation plan to ensure you remain within budget. Contractors will then be hired to carry out the works.
Depending on your capital options, your building partner may apply for funding on your behalf at some point before any work commences. This should ease any financial strain on your annual budget.
Retrofit Schools with Eddisons Education
If you think a retrofit is the ideal next project for your school, we believe we are a great partner to guide you through the process. With 180 years of property experience, a proven track record and good client reviews, you can depend on us from start to finish.
Please call 0808 253 9150 or complete the form below to register your interest in our services, and we will arrange a free consultation to discuss your needs.
