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Overcoming the complexities of carbon reduction planning
8 Product & Industry News
The latest news and views on campus
22 Planning at pace How St. Catherine’s College managed emergency works on a Grade I listed campus
26 Brighter futures
Dulux Decorator Centre colours SEN teaching space in Portsmouth
30 From ambition to action
How education estates can hit sustainability targets through smarter hygiene strategies
34 New term, new risks
The crucial role of a fire risk assessment
38 Tag, you’re it BIM and asset management
42 Smart energy, smarter schools
Why an EMS is the Key
25 Years to net zero
Overcoming the complexities of carbon reduction planning
Reducing carbon emissions is a critical challenge that organisations across the globe are grappling with. With 25 years left to address climate change, the path to achieving significant reductions in emissions is challenging and loaded with complexities.
Natalia Block, Analytics Consultant at TEAM Energy, looks at the multifaceted nature of this undertaking and reveals how
organisations can navigate a carbon emissions reduction plan.
The daunting task of emissions reduction
For many organisations, a carbon reduction plan can seem overwhelming. The task involves not only understanding and measuring emissions but also implementing methods that can lead to meaningful reductions. This process is often complicated by the need to address
emissions across various scopes and engage a wide range of stakeholders.
Understanding Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions
To effectively reduce emissions, organisations must first understand the categories of emissions they produce:
• Scope 1 Emissions: Direct emissions from owned or controlled sources, such as company vehicles or on-site fuel
combustion.
• Scope 2 Emissions: Indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling consumed by the organisation.
• Scope 3 Emissions: Include all other indirect emissions that occur in the value chain of the reporting company, including both upstream and downstream emissions. It is more straightforward to address Scope 1 and 2 emissions as they are within the direct control of the organisation. Scope 3 emissions, however, account for a significant portion of an organisation’s total carbon footprint and are more challenging to manage due to their indirect nature.
The role of near real-time data for sustainability reporting
One of the key tools in the fight against carbon emissions is the
use of near real-time data. By leveraging advanced monitoring, data integration and reporting technologies, organisations can gain immediate insights into their emissions. This data allows for more responsive and adaptive processes, enabling organisations to identify problem areas and implement corrective actions swiftly.
Engaging stakeholders in a carbon emissions reduction plan
Effective emission reduction requires the engagement of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, investors, and the broader community. Organisations must foster a culture of sustainability and ensure that all stakeholders understand the importance of reducing emissions. This can be achieved by tailoring initiatives to different stakeholders through transparent communication, targeted
education, and by demonstrating the tangible benefits of sustainability initiatives.
Collaborating with the supply chain to enhance carbon footprint reduction
Working with the supply chain is crucial for addressing Scope 3 emissions. Organisations need to collaborate with suppliers to ensure that they are also committed to their own carbon footprint reduction plan. This can involve setting sustainability criteria for suppliers, providing support and resources to help them improve their practices, and integrating sustainability into procurement processes.
Effective approaches to enable organisations in their carbon emission reduction plan
• Energy Management Systems: A robust Monitoring and Targeting
(M&T) system is crucial for optimising energy consumption and maintaining energy efficiency, leading to significant reductions in Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
• Carbon Accounting Software: Important to help organisations track, calculate, and manage their carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions using science based, verified methodology in line with global carbon accounting standards.
• Application Programming Interfaces: Bringing together data from an organisation’s M&T solution, carbon accounting and many other sources, APIs are a crucial component in for accurate sustainability reporting because they enable seamless data integration and near real-time updates.
• Energy Audits and Surveys: Getting a full evaluation of a property portfolio will provide valuable consumption insights and is essential when defining
what energy efficiency measures are needed to support an organisation’s carbon reduction strategy.
• Carbon Reduction Plan: A carefully created plan to suit an organisation’s scope and available resources can highlight optimal carbon saving projects and determine a realistic timeline in which emissions reductions can be achieved. A bespoke approach to developing a carbon reduction roadmap maximises cost savings, regulatory compliance, and enhanced sustainability.
• Renewable Energy: Opportunities available to transition to renewable energy sources can drastically reduce an organisation’s Scope 2 emissions.
• Carbon Offsetting: While not a substitute for direct emission reductions, carbon offsetting can help organisations mitigate their impact by investing in projects that reduce or remove carbon from the atmosphere.
Reducing carbon emissions is undoubtedly a complex and daunting task, but it is also an essential one. By understanding the different types of emissions, leveraging near real-time data, engaging stakeholders, collaborating with the supply chain, and utilising effective tools, organisations can make significant strides in their sustainability journeys.
TEAM is an energy and sustainability consultancy. It helps organisations with large energy estates reduce consumption and carbon emissions to save money and meet commercial and compliance targets on their journey to net zero.
Founded in 1985, it has a long history of helping customers navigate changing definitions and certification standards. TEAM Energy is an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), with employees having a direct stake in its customers’ success.
For further information please visit www.teamenergy.com.
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Firethorn appoints HG Construction to deliver Hackney Wick student accommodation
Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has appointed HG Construction to deliver a high-quality purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) site in Hackney Wick.
Part of the Firethorn Living portfolio, Hackney Wick will comprise 204 modern and spacious student bed spaces, 35% of which will be affordable accommodation.
Residents will benefit from generous amenities, including co-working study spaces, common rooms, private dining space, a gym and two outdoor roof terraces.
Firethorn will also work with a local community interest group to create around 1,400 sq. m. of affordable and incubator workspace at the site, to support the local creative industry.
Set on the grounds of the former Broadwood piano factory, the development will preserve and incorporate the site’s historic brick chimney, originally built in 1902. Sustainable features have been incorporated into the design, with a target BREEAM “Excellent” rating.
Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn said:
“Hackney Wick reflects our commitment to increasing the provision of high-quality student accommodation in key university cities across the UK. HG Construction’s strong track record in delivering modern PBSA developments, combined with the team’s local expertise, makes it the ideal partner for this project. We look forward to working together to bring the development to swift completion.”
Adam Quinn, Chief Executive Officer of HG
Construction, said:
“We are delighted to be partnering with Firethorn to deliver this exciting new scheme. Having previously delivered several successful developments just a stone’s throw from the site, we know the area well and value its rich heritage. The opportunity to preserve key historical elements while bringing forward high-quality student accommodation aligns perfectly with our ethos.
“We look forward to collaborating with Firethorn to deliver this scheme with a commitment to quality and sustainability, and to maximising social value opportunities throughout the construction phase and beyond.”
The development is within a 15-minute walking distance of University Arts London and UCL East, and the surrounding area offers a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants and shopping centres.
Work is due to start on site immediately, with completion on track for the 2027/28 academic year.
Hackney Wick is Firethorn’s third PBSA development, with the others located in Stratford, London, and Leith Walk in Edinburgh, which has reached the topping out stage and is scheduled for practical completion in September 2026.
Firethorn’s growing living portfolio also includes the delivery of a 138-bedroom hostel in Dublin, sleeping up to 716 persons, and the office-to-residential conversion of One Bessborough Gardens in central London.
For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com.
AUCSO launches landmark Benhmarking Report 2025
AUCSO launches landmark Benchmarking Report 2025: A comprehensive analysis of higher education security operations
The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO), the global body for security professionals in Higher and Further Education, has launched its Benchmarking Report 2025, the first comprehensive study of security operations across higher education institutions in the UK and internationally. The report was compiled in partnership with ISARR, a bespoke risk, resilience and security management provider with a long-standing relationship with AUCSO.
In an increasingly complex risk environment, universities face rising pressures to protect students, staff, research assets, and communities. Until now, security leaders have lacked comparative data to evaluate their operations effectively against their peers. The AUCSO Benchmarking Report fills that gap, providing robust sector-wide insights into structures, staffing, technology, and strategic approaches.
The report draws on contributions from institutions across the UK, Ireland, and international higher education, offering unprecedented visibility into how the sector is adapting to evolving challenges.
Critical trends
Key findings reveal seven critical trends shaping the future of higher education security:
• Rapid professionalisation of university security functions, with formal qualifications, structured career pathways, and specialist roles emerging.
• A shift “beyond guarding” towards integrated welfare and wellbeing responsibilities, with security teams often acting as frontline responders to mental health and safeguarding issues.
• Growing adoption and integration of advanced security technologies, from body-worn video and digital incident recording to enhanced CCTV.
• Persistent workforce challenges, including limited gender diversity (female representation averaging just 5%) and reliance on traditional security backgrounds.
• Strong focus on emergency preparedness, terrorism awareness, and proactive risk management.
• Clear correlation between institutional size and complexity of security operations.
• Widespread adoption of sector standards such as 24/7 provision, control rooms, and formal external partnerships.
Julie Barker, Chief Operating Officer of AUCSO, said: “This report marks an important milestone for our sector. For the first time, higher education security leaders can benchmark their operations against a robust international dataset. The insights will enable institutions to make evidence-based decisions, strengthen resilience, and shape security strategies that are proportionate, professional, and responsive to the needs of their campus communities.
We are proud to deliver a resource that will directly support our members in enhancing safety, wellbeing, and preparedness across universities worldwide.”
Next steps
The Benchmarking Report 2025 will be updated and enriched as AUCSO continues to collect and analyse operational performance data, ensuring members can access the most relevant and up-to-date insights.
www.aucso.org/benchmarking-report.
Multiroll divides new teaching space at London college
Working with architect, Studio Dera, and contractor, IMS Building Solutions, Style was recently specified to divide the new teaching hall at Waltham Forest College in London, quickly allowing two separate rooms to be created.
Meeting the criteria for a simple, yet highly effective, solution to divide the expansive space, Style recommended its popular Multiroll system.
Practical and affordable, Multiroll is a flexible, vertically rising moveable wall system that safely transforms vast spaces. Being housed in the ceiling when not in use, it takes up no floor space whatsoever, descending gracefully into position at the turn of a key.
Extensive safety testing and size specifications make Multiroll particularly suitable for schools, community centres and leisure facilities, delivering enhanced noise insulation and improved acoustics for large open areas such as gyms, sports halls and high-ceilinged rooms.
Waltham Forest College in London, is an inclusive college, supporting and encouraging students to ‘Think
BIG’ in achieving their career goals.
Following a feasibility study into repurposing the old swimming pool and auxiliary spaces across the lower ground and ground floor, it was decided to convert this entire area into a large flexible teaching and learning space.
“The Multiroll is the perfect solution for Waltham Forest College,” said Michael Porter, Style’s group managing director, “as it’s an affordable and very effective solution for quickly dividing space and changing the use of the room.
“On any given day, the college may need to cater for many different classes and events, and the simplicity and speed of operation of the Multiroll means the room can be opened up or divided into two between one class finishing and the next one starting.
“The college also hires out the room for external events, and being able to divide the room into two improves their ability to bring in important income as they can host more than one event at a time.”
Morgan Sindall breaks ground on net-zero SEND sixth form in Essex
Morgan Sindall Construction’s Essex business has commenced works on the brand-new SEND Glenwood Sixth Form in South Benfleet.
Appointed by Essex County Council (ECC) through the ECC framework, the tier one contractor celebrated this milestone with a groundbreaking event on the 19th of September, attended by ECC representatives, MP for Castlepoint School Rebecca Harris, and the Morgan Sindall project team.
The £6.6M project will create five classrooms, a dining space, catering training centre, meeting room, and specialised sensory rooms, creating a safe, enriching environment for children with additional learning needs to enjoy.
To meet ECC’s growing demand for SEND spaces, Glenwood Sixth Form will have capacity for 40 students.
On track to complete in spring 2026, the finished project will include vibrant landscaping, small play areas, and a car park with 109 spaces, seven EV charging spots, three accessible spots, and eight additional mini bus spaces.
The property will be constructed using a SIPS frame and brickwork façade, delivering both efficiency and durability. This combination will create excellent insulation and airtightness, as well as reduce energy costs and create a comfortable learning environment for students.
In line with Morgan Sindall’s commitment to sustainability, Glenwood Sixth Form will be carbon net-zero in operation, powered by PV panels on the roof and air source heat pumps.
The project team also plans to organise numerous initiatives at the school and with the community throughout construction to engage with students and locals.
Ryan Liversage, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in Essex, said: “We’re incredibly proud to break ground on the new Glenwood Sixth Form, which will provide a sustainable and inspiring environment for young people with additional needs. This project is about more than construction – it’s about creating spaces that will nurture learning, independence, and wellbeing, supporting SEN students for many years to come.”
Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “The investment in a state-of-the-art sixth form facility at Glenwood reflects our firm commitment to supporting children and young people with special education needs in the county. The sixth form will provide a safe space for young people to learn, thrive, gain independence and build confidence for the future and create much needed additional SEND provision in South Essex.
“We’re hugely excited to see the project come to life and the positive impact it will have on the community.”
KNX key to Siemens open protocol approach
Siemens continues to focus on the importance of open protocols in realising the potential of effective building automation in smart buildings, with a range of devices based on the popular KNX communication protocol.
KNX is now well established as the means by which different devices from a number of manufacturers can communicate via one common language. Siemens has invested significantly in KNX, recognising the opportunities it presents to reduce system complexity and create indoor environments which contribute to the wellbeing of buildings’ users.
The Siemens range covers a number of building requirements, from lighting and shading to HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning). The devices allow the control of every function in a room, with display and operation units which can enable users to change the room functions to their individual comfort settings or to adopt automated settings based on factors such as room occupancy and CO2 levels.
Examples include the Siemens Touch Control TC5 all-in-one room control unit. With its updated firmware, the TC5 offers the potential to operate as an all-in-one KNX room control device, with multiple pages to enable configuration of all desired room functions through the ETS software, including the display of data gathered by external sensors.
The room temperature controller supports a range of HVAC applications, from heating and ventilating to fan coils, VRF (variable refrigerant flow), chilled ceiling and floor heating. Comprehensive lighting functionality is provided for switching and dimming, as well as the capacity for Human Centric Lighting and solar protection
through shading control. It also optimises indoor air quality, providing alerts for even the smallest of harmful particles such as PM2.5, PM10, CO2 and VOC (volatile organic compounds).
Also utilising the KNX protocol is the RDG200 range - devices which can operate on a standalone basis or as part of an integrated system to provide complete room automation in a single unit.
Powerful control functionality, built-in sensors and a flexible power supply ensures the versatility to meet the needs of a wide range of room applications, with an easy-to-clean, smooth and resilient surface (in black or white). Using the open KNX communication protocol, the RDG200 can be seamlessly integrated in BMS (building management systems), including Siemens Desigo as well as a range of other third-party solutions.
Andy Davis, Product Manager with Siemens Buildings, comments – “We have seen KNX evolve from a system predominantly employed for lighting to one which is now widely used in controlling most parts of the building. It offers an excellent platform at room level, allowing integrated rooms to combine lighting, blinds and HVAC into a single energy efficient approach. As the demand for smart buildings continues to grow, so the need for communication across devices is increasing. KNX takes away the isolation of BMS devices and allows ease of integration to optimise the potential for efficient, sustainable and user-friendly buildings.”
For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure please see www.siemens.co.uk/buildingtechnologies
New Altro walls bring extended design range and wider colour choice
Altro has refreshed and expanded its Altro Tegulis and Altro Walls ShowerKit collections, introducing an array of new tile-effect options for Altro Tegulis and a broader spectrum of colours and designs for Altro Walls ShowerKit. Developed in response to valuable customer feedback, these enhancements provide greater design flexibility and more creative choices than ever before, ensuring that every project can be tailored to suit contemporary tastes and needs.
Both ranges now include woods, minerals, weaves, concretes, and marble designs, aligning with modern trends, and Altro Tegulis features new tile patterns, offering a luxurious and durable look.
Altro Tegulis wall panels give numerous colour and tile-effect combinations. With innovative etched grout lines, Altro Tegulis is perfect for those looking to create a stylish, flexible look for walls in bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial spaces and is easy to clean, robust and hygienic, offering a grout-free alternative to ceramic tiles. Altro Tegulis is also a much faster alternative to traditional tiles, cutting installation time by more than 60%.
There are thirteen tile-effect options with multiple colour and design palettes in three Altro Tegulis collections: Essence is an essential collection of seven tile designs, Deluxe features a range of six more intricate and detailed patterns and Custom gives the freedom to create bespoke or personalised designs.
Altro Walls ShowerKit is an easy to fit, quick installation wall solution, and is an ideal choice for residential, hospitality and light commercial settings. Available in a wide range of colours and designs from classic white to tile-effect, Altro Walls ShowerKit can be installed over existing ceramic tiles and provide a grout-free, mould resistant, easy to clean surface.
The expansion of colours and designs in the Altro Whiterock wall portfolio ensures even greater flexibility and creativity in design choices, while the addition of new options brings elegance, durability, and hygiene to public-facing areas, creating a lasting first impression, every time.
Find out more about Altro’s wall system here: www.altro.com/uk/products/walls-doors/walls.
Enabling Works kickstart at Nottinghamshire’s Bramcote College
Morgan Sindall Construction’s Midlands business has been appointed to deliver a transformational new secondary school and sixth form at Bramcote College by The White Hills Park Trust.
Located on the same site as the existing college, the new three-storey, Five Form Entry (5FE) facility will provide a modern, inspiring, and inclusive learning environment for up to 750 secondary and 200 sixth form students.
Morgan Sindall has now been contracted to carry out the enabling works to prepare the site for the construction of the new steel-frame, brick-façade building. These works will include detailed site surveys, ground investigations, service diversions, and the demolition of the existing sports hall.
Working closely with the architectural team at Arc Partnership, a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and SCAPE, the design is being carefully developed to maximise the quality of the learning environment while remaining in keeping with the character of the surrounding community. Main construction works are expected to begin in 2026 and are set to be delivered in phases to ensure minimal disruption to students and staff.
Procured via the SCAPE Construction framework, the project team is committed to delivering meaningful community benefits. To achieve this, Morgan Sindall will source local labour and subcontractors within a 20-mile radius and is targeting a social value return of over 30%, ensuring that project investment directly benefits the local economy and people.
Richard Fielding, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the Midlands, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be working with The White Hills Park Trust to help realise their vision for Bramcote College. Following a collaborative and carefully considered pre-construction phase, it’s fantastic to now be starting the enabling works.
“This marks an exciting step towards delivering a modern, high-quality learning environment that will serve students and the wider community for generations to come.”
James Macdonald, Chief Operating Officer at The White Hills Park Trust, said: “Having Morgan Sindall on site marks the end of the beginning for this exciting project. We are incredibly pleased to be working with them to deliver this much-needed and transformative school for our students, staff and the wider community.”
Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive for SCAPE Group, said: “Once complete, Bramcote College will sit at the centre of its community, offering a modern learning environment and high-quality facilities.
“Arc Partnership’s design has been carefully developed to inspire and engage learnings, with the inclusion of cutting-edge science labs, technology rooms and sports amenities. The project is also being delivered through SCAPE’s gold accredited Construction Framework which will enable project to benefit from early contractor engagement, expert support and proactive management, ensuring time and cost efficiencies throughout delivery.”
Tylers Green Middle School partners with Amthal to achieve total protection on site
Amthal Group Companies has installed a specialist gate automation and access control system at Tylers Green Middle School as part of a security upgrade to enhance the safety of its students, staff and visitors.
Tylers Green Middle School has a vision to deliver an unmissable education at the heart of the community, supporting over 255 pupils aged 7 to 11 in a safe and secure learning environment.
Amthal worked closely with the school to design and implement a system tailored to its specific requirements. The solution provides secure, automated access for authorised personnel while streamlining operations, reducing administrative burden and allowing staff to focus on educational priorities.
Says Elin Chalk, School Business Manager at Tylers Green Middle School: “Amthal were helpful and professional from the start, and we appreciate the support we received with this project and their flexibility. Balancing security with accessibility is always tricky and we were grateful to have a gate installed which can be managed on a timer, hence set to be automatically open and closed when needed.
“The team from Amthal worked very well with the school on the installation and there was little disruption during this period. The school site was very well put back together with little evidence of the extensive building work that had taken place. There were some teething problems when first using the system which
were ironed out with the help of Amthal. We are satisfied with the installation, and it does add an additional strong layer of security to our school, which is much appreciated.”
The installation process involved a thorough risk assessment and careful planning to ensure minimal disruption to pupils and staff. Working in partnership with the school, Amthal coordinated the installation around learning timetables, building on an established relationship as the trusted provider for the maintenance and servicing of the school's intruder alarm system.
The new access control solution further enhances oversight and emergency response, delivering secure entry points for staff and visitors, supported by remote monitoring and real-time access logs.
David Williamson, Business Development Manager at Amthal Fire & Security, concluded: “By working closely with Tylers Green Middle School from the outset, we tailored the security upgrade to the school’s specific requirements, ensuring it complemented daily operations.
“From the very beginning, we listened carefully to their needs, planning all works to minimise disruption. Even after work was completed, we stayed to ensure the gate automation solution worked in line with the needs of the school. The result is a robust, seamlessly integrated security system to enhance safety while maintaining the school’s welcoming atmosphere.”
Heart of Worcestershire College announce all-new street art mural with Reimagine Redditch
Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) has partnered with Reimagine Redditch and Arts in Redditch to commission a street art mural for installation at the Redditch campus this autumn.
The artwork, which will be the single largest piece of street art in Redditch, will communicate an inspirational vision for the future of Redditch, as well as respond to themes identified through a consultation phase in 2024. The artwork is being created with funding from Arts Council England’s Creative People and Places Programme, and Arts In Redditch.
The artist of the installation has been announced as Andy Dice (aka Dice67) who is Founder and Director of Cheltenham Paint Festival, one of the biggest and most well-respected paint festivals in the country. As an artist painting in the public domain, Dice67’s work is varied, often thought provoking and colourful.
The design of the piece was inspired by the starling murmuration in Redditch and represents the possibilities of art and education for young people and indicates that they have the power to shape their futures. The final artwork will highlight Redditch’s future possibilities, and enhance pride among students, staff, residents and the wider population.
Michelle Dowse, Principal and CEO of HoW College, said: “We want our campuses to be great places of
learning for our students. But we also want to model excellence, ambition and collaboration to demonstrate what we’re all about to the wider community. A street art mural will help us to show the impact we’re making in Redditch.
“This is a really exciting project which we hope will inspire countless stakeholders – whether they are learning or working at our College, or residents and visitors to the borough – to be ambitious about what is possible in Redditch and to know that great arts and culture can happen here.”
Richard Bromhall, Programme Director for Reimagine Redditch, said: "We needed an artist with a distinctive creative approach to create an unforgettable artwork for Redditch Town Centre at Heart of Worcestershire’s Redditch Campus. I'm thrilled to see Andy Dice (aka Dice67) bring all of his talent and expertise to Redditch. I can't wait for everybody to see his mural."
HoW College plays a pivotal role in the community, inspiring people and shaping futures. By creating a signature work of street art at its Redditch Campus, students, staff, and residents will feel inspired by Redditch’s potential by engaging in culture.
For more information about HoW College, or to apply, visit www.howcollege.ac.uk
Fusion21 framework offers education providers an efficient and impactful route to decarbonisation
Oliver Mooney, Head of Category for Fusion21, explains why their Decarbonisation Framework is an ideal solution for education providers and local authorities wanting to deliver social impact alongside achieving genuine value for money.
The education sector has big targets to hit when it comes to the journey to net zero, which includes improving the energy performance of its non-domestic buildings by 2030. This means there’s only a short window of opportunity to make the necessary changes in time.
There are decarbonisation measures that can be done in isolation to achieve the required results, but these don’t consider how the building works as a whole. While they can reduce energy consumption, they can also increase costs in other areas.
That’s why, at Fusion21, we recommend a whole building approach, which means the works only need to happen once, are done right, and are planned around long-term investment.
Whether it is education, housing, local authority, or NHS and blue light sectors, we specialise in efficient and impactful public sector procurement and delivering social value you can see.
Our Decarbonisation Framework helps organisations that want to take a longer-term approach to managing their assets rather than simply chasing the short-term targets. This helps them to look at overall net zero targets, as well as organisational targets for environmental impacts and sustainability.
The framework is worth up to £1.5 billion over four years with a total of 40 specialist firms – 42% being SMEs – approved to help deliver zero carbon goals, reduce emissions, maximise cost savings, achieve social value targets, and support domestic and non-domestic retrofit measures.
Built on a turnkey model, the framework gives our members access to qualified PAS2030:2023 compliant suppliers. It offers updated specifications, flexible procurement routes, relevant and refreshed 2025 pricing models, regional and national coverage, and the ability to deliver multiple measures at scale and volume.
It is an efficient way to procure suppliers for decarbonisation work, with options including “design and build” contractorled projects or a more traditional approach with independent consultants supporting.
With support available for preliminary market engagement and a streamlined supply chain that can mobilise on-site quickly, the framework is ideal for education providers looking to move swiftly.
The advantages of the Decarbonisation Framework for the education sector:
1. Capable, competent, and experienced supply chain
The framework provides access to suppliers who are capable, competent, and experienced, with PAS2038 accreditation – the standard for the retrofit of a non-domestic building based on a whole building approach. A major advantage of this is that contractor liabilities extend beyond practical completion into the post-occupancy stage, with performance monitoring that holds them to account to ensure they have delivered what was agreed.
Suppliers are also accredited to PAS2030 for individual elements of the work, ensuring each aspect is completed to the highest standard and considers how the work will interact with the existing structure.
We use an evidence-based assessment of suppliers, so education providers can be assured that they all have the resources and supply chain to complete the work, having demonstrated this in schemes of similar complexity, nature, and value.
Lastly, we know schools, colleges, and universities can’t simply shut down for building works, except during term breaks. That’s why our suppliers have proven experience working safely in live environments, managing risk, and minimising disruption to learning.
2. Increased level of competition
The framework provides access to a range of supply partners (including SME’s), removing the uncertainty of going to the open market. All tenderers are pre-qualified and engaged suppliers with relevant experience that meet our selection criteria and minimum standards.
Suppliers will know that they are bidding against credible peers who deliver similar work to high standards, so their bids will need to be very competitive.
This helps our members achieve genuine value for money, with predictable costs and timelines from the outset. Suppliers are incentivised to proactively manage these factors throughout the contract, while also ensuring there are no defects after completion.
3. Early supply chain engagement
By accessing the framework, members can immediately engage with suppliers they want to work with, building relationships more quickly than in the open market, where time is often spent identifying the right suppliers.
Early engagement gives suppliers visibility of upcoming needs, helps them understand project objectives, explore feasibility, and anticipate potential construction challenges.
We support this process by helping our members to shape procurement requirements, define the best route to market, and identify likely contractual terms—drawing on supplier experiences to shape the outcomes and discover what is achievable within the budget.
This early involvement also helps avoid mobilisation delays and reduces the risk of rising costs, which can occur as the availability of labour, and resources becomes more limited.
4. Maximising social impact
Building on the principles of the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012, the National Procurement Policy Statement places responsibility on contracting authorities to generate wider social and economic benefits through public spending.
Our framework enables social value to be delivered and tailored to local priorities, ensuring outcomes align with the specific needs of each education provider. It also supports the development of green skills and the creation of employment opportunities.
£380m
Procurement with purpose
Fusion21 is a national social enterprise specialising in efficient and impactful public sector procurement and social value services. We believe in procurement with purpose, helping education providers ensure that their estates projects deliver social impact for their communities.
To date, Fusion21 has supported its members with £380 million savings, creating over 13,550 employment outcomes and generating over £200 million in social impact. in social impact
£200m saved
13,550 Over employment outcomes Over
Oliver Mooney, Head of Category for Fusion21
Planning at pace
How
St. Catherine’s College managed emergency works on a Grade I listed campus
Miriam Owen, Associate Director at Edgars, shares the key lessons from St. Catherine’s College’s planning journey, offering practical guidance for those managing emergency works in heritage education buildings. When structural failure threatens both student safety and an institution’s physical legacy, decisions must happen at pace. Yet, in protected environments like St. Catherine’s College, Oxford, urgency must be balanced with procedure. This was the challenge the College faced when RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) was discovered in the roof of five of its iconic Arne Jacobsen-designed buildings, a discovery that required an immediate response tempered with careful navigation through heritage planning requirements.
While St. Catherine’s College’s situation is unique, with very few listed buildings known to feature RAAC in the UK, the lessons learned apply to any educational estate responsible for managing urgent works in heritage environments.
Heritage risk
RAAC has become a widely recognised acronym in the education sector, and for good reason. Its presence has forced schools, colleges and universities across the UK to close or partially vacate buildings while assessments and repairs are made. But at St. Catherine’s, the implications went beyond structural risk.
The affected buildings were not just historic. St. Catherine’s is one of the most celebrated examples of post-war modernism in the UK, carrying a Grade I listing. This meant any intervention would require full planning and listed building consent, a process that can take months or even years. While temporary measures were implemented to make the accommodation blocks safe and communal facilities relocated, the College needed a plan that would not only resolve its RAAC issue quickly but also maintain fidelity to Jacobsen’s original design.
Integrated planning and heritage
One of the defining strengths of the project was its approach to
planning and heritage expertise. In many cases, these disciplines are handled separately, often leading to misalignment or delays.
However, with the scale of this intervention unprecedented - entire roofs across a complex of individually designated Grade I buildings needed replacing – and with students already evacuated, exceptional coordination and trust between parties were critical.
To achieve this, planning and conservation were integrated from the outset, allowing the team to address technical constraints, heritage concerns, and policy compliance holistically, rather than sequentially. This integration enabled the faster resolution of design and heritage conflicts, allowing the team to adapt more quickly as technical and policy challenges emerged.
A unified team
Likewise, in time-critical projects such as St. Catherine’s, a unified and aligned project team is a crucial factor. Again, early collaboration between planning and heritage experts, architects, engineers and
college representatives was key, helping everyone understand their role and its impact on others.
The project team also established efficient working practices with statutory bodies, including Oxford City Council, Historic England, and the Twentieth Century Society, building on pre-existing relationships and trust.
Rather than relying on formal feedback loops and individual meetings, all parties involved met simultaneously and sequentially. We also captured and circulated feedback and key design decisions from meetings, rather than waiting for a written response after every session, which would have added significant delay. In similar high-stakes settings, this proactive approach can shorten the planning timeline considerably.
As you might expect, heritage projects can draw passionate responses. The Twentieth Century Society, for example, expressed understandable concern at the removal of original materials. While they accepted that the RAAC roofs needed to go, the knock-on impact for a significant amount of original glazing directly affixed to the RAAC and consequently incapable of being retained was a bitter pill to swallow.
Rather than resist or underplay those concerns, however, it’s vital to engage with them in staged, transparent dialogue. In the case of St. Catherine’s, we presented our options and decision pathway so everyone understood our reasoning, demonstrated the structural and material limitations, and clarified which decisions were unavoidable.
In fact, one of the most effective tools in our process was progressive evidence-sharing to inform key design decisions, which were made collaboratively with key stakeholders. Each step – from identifying risks, to proposing replacement materials, to showing structural impacts –was introduced gradually. This measured and staged engagement allowed stakeholders to absorb technical details in context, reducing resistance and building a shared understanding and collective buy-in to the design solution.
Clarity of scope
A tightly defined project scope also
proved invaluable to achieving planning consent at pace. The brief was clear: remove unsafe material, preserve external appearance, and maintain the building’s original educational use.
The fact that the College’s intended use would not change worked in our favour and is something that other institutions facing an emergency planning requirement could also utilise to their advantage.
With the scope of works tightly defined, we were able to bypass complex viability arguments and instead focus on fabric preservation and risk mitigation. The goal of the St. Catherine’s project wasn’t a new use or a change of character, but ensuring safety and fidelity. This allowed stakeholders to feel more confident in supporting urgent intervention.
A phased approach
To expedite planning, a phased application approach was also implemented in conjunction with Oxford City Council, Historic England and Twentieth Century Society.
The main reason for subdividing the application into phases was to ensure that the footprint of each phase would fall within the threshold for a delegated application, rather than a major application, thereby ensuring expediency in terms of determination timescales. For settings managing heritage campuses, phased consent can be a helpful tactic, especially where
funding or site logistics demand a staged approach.
The first phase included all the communal elements of the College buildings – the SCR, JCR, dining hall, Wolfson library and Bernard Sunley Building. This was the priority for the College; alongside reinstating all important student functions and a sense of normalcy, there were financial implications. Temporary accommodation, for example, in the form of marquees, was an additional expenditure for the College while the buildings remained out of use.
As the site is a Grade I listed heritage asset, it was important to show that the works would happen in a joined-up way. If only Phase 1 had gone ahead, it could have harmed the integrity of the overall site. To avoid this, the team agreed to submit the Phase 2 application for the accommodation blocks before the decision on Phase 1, ensuring a clear link and consistent approach across all buildings.
To expedite construction once consent was granted, it was also agreed at the pre-application stage which documents needed to be submitted upfront to avoid delay associated with discharging precommencement conditions. These included traffic and environmental management plans, a historic building record, and a tree protection strategy. Planning officers worked closely with the team to resolve queries and reduce the need for extra planning conditions.
Unexpected blockers
While well-scoped, the project still faced significant legislative and technical hurdles. One of the more surprising obstacles to the project was the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirement. The legislation had recently come into force and applied here, despite the site being a formally designed and listed garden. There was no scope for a net gain within the site boundary, and arranging off-site credits would have introduced an unacceptable delay.
The only practical solution was to redefine the red line boundary to exclude areas of existing ecological value, to qualify for a ‘de minimis’ exemption. While an inelegant fix, it was a necessary one and highlights a broader issue for estate teams managing heritage sites that sometimes new policy tools don’t map easily onto legacy assets. Here, working with trusted consultants and building case-specific evidence is vital to finding compliant yet pragmatic solutions.
Other challenges included technical constraints around the roof structure. RAAC panel removal required minimal visual disruption; however, the proposed roof system needed to increase in depth to meet both structural and thermal performance standards. Raising the roof, even subtly, raised heritage concerns. The team addressed these issues by presenting side-by-side
visual comparisons, involving key stakeholders in the options assessment process, along with engineering justifications and precedents.
Planning successes
Through a combination of measures, the planning process, from preapplication to decision, took just seven months, which is exceptional for heritage projects.
Another major success in the planning journey was securing a five-year time limit for Phase 2 of the works, rather than the standard three years. Critically, this will give the College time to raise substantial funds and phase the works sensibly.
To achieve this milestone, we prepared a supporting statement that framed the extended timeline not as a delay, but as a practical necessity for conservation by linking the risk of premature action – removing part of a historic roof without resources in place to complete the work – to potential harm. This made it a conservation issue, not just a financial one.
Lessons for campus estate leaders
For estates directors, bursars, and facilities leads navigating urgent works on heritage campuses, this project offers a model worth following. While the presence of RAAC made the case at St. Catherine’s exceptional,
the principles that underpinned its success apply more broadly, whether it’s responding to structural degradation, fire or outdated materials.
One of the most important lessons is the value of clarity. A tightly defined brief, focused on student safety, continuity of use, and minimal visual change, helped align all parties and accelerate decisionmaking.
Assembling the right team early also proved vital. A collaborative project group, with close coordination between planning, heritage, design and engineering specialists, helped avoid delays and manage complexity. Critically, this team engaged with statutory bodies at an early stage, not just through formal channels but via informal, iterative conversations. This approach built trust, created space for questions, and ensured stakeholders felt part of the journey rather than presented with a predecided solution.
Likewise, adopting a phased approach to planning and decisionmaking helped achieve a successful outcome in unprecedented timing. With growing pressure on an ageing educational estate infrastructure, similar emergencies are increasingly likely. But as St. Catherine’s experience shows, urgent heritage interventions can be delivered at pace and without compromise.
Turnitin Originality rises above similarity checking, addresses new and emerging trends in misconduct, and keeps integrity at the core of all student work.
Brighter futures
Dulux Decorator Centre colours SEN teaching
space in Portsmouth
Dulux Decorator Centre has played a central role in transforming a disused caretaker’s lodge into a vibrant Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching hub at Craneswater School in Portsmouth. The team supported the transformation by providing expert colour and specification guidance, to create a space that nurtures sensory learning. Originally built in 1910, the lodge
had gradually fallen into disrepair. With support from Portsmouth City Council and Dulux Decorator Centre, the historic building has now been transformed into a vibrant SEN facility. Featuring sensory rooms, staff areas, a kitchen, toilets, and a dedicated activity space, it now provides an inclusive and inspiring environment for children with special educational needs.
Informing the paint specification
The Dulux Decorator Centre team was first approached by Portsmouth City Council to review the site and advise on suitable paints for the building. After a full site assessment, Dulux Decorator Centre’s
Specification Development Manager, Nicki Rutter, and Technical Support Manager, Craig Wilson, provided a tailored technical specification to align with both the building’s
condition and its new function as a teaching hub.
The team recommended a wide range of Dulux Trade products, including Dulux Trade Weathershield Exterior High Gloss, Dulux Trade Metalshield Gloss, Dulux Trade Plus SmartShield+ and Dulux Trade High Performance Floor Paint for the building’s exterior.
To bring colour and durability to interior surfaces, Dulux Trade Diamond Matt was used in high traffic areas like staircases to protect walls from regular knocks and scuffs. To keep the classroom walls and wet areas looking fresher for longer, Dulux Trade Diamond Eggshell was recommended for its scrub, scuff and stain resistance. In addition, Dulux Trade Quick Dry Gloss was applied to timber surfaces including windows, spindles and skirting to offer a tough
and durable finish.
The Dulux Decorator Centre team also provided ongoing site support to ensure the work carried out by subcontractors remained in line with the original specification.
Colour and sensory design expertise
During initial planning sessions with the school and council, Dulux Decorator Centre was also asked to provide colour guidance. The brief was to support the sensory focus of the new learning space.
Martha Dunican, Commercial Colour Services Operations Manager for Dulux Decorator Centre at AkzoNobel, developed a bespoke design scheme that considered the different uses of each space. Understanding that colour plays a vital role in the wellbeing and engagement of children with
additional needs was vital, and the scheme was a carefully considered and grounded in sensory-friendly principles.
In special education environments, calming palettes that incorporate soft, organic hues are preferred. Colours like dusty blues and greens reduce stress and foster concentration, while muted pinks and warm neutrals create a nurturing, energetic atmosphere without overstimulation. This approach was used throughout the lodge to foster comfort, focus, and emotional wellbeing.
In more immersive sensory spaces, deeper tones were used to absorb excess light and provide contrast with dynamic sensory lighting, creating a cocoon-like effect that engages the senses without overwhelming.
To support inclusivity for students with visual impairments, lighter skirting and door architraves were used in contrast with darker wall colours to aid spatial awareness and movement around the rooms. For example, skirting and architraves in communal areas like corridors, the kitchen and lobby were painted in a soft grey to maintain a strong visual contrast and support accessibility for students with impaired vision.
Meanwhile, teacher and staff areas also benefited from intentional colour zoning. Breakout areas were finished in calming blues and greens to promote relaxation, while administrative offices used warm neutrals for a grounded, comfortable atmosphere. Meeting rooms featured vibrant tones like dusty pinks and deeper teals to spark creativity and collaboration.
All remaining walls throughout the building were painted in Piano White
to maintain clarity and consistency, with service doors colour-matched to adjacent walls to subtly discourage student interaction.
Bringing students into the project
To ensure that students felt part of the redesign, the Dulux Decorator Centre team helped to arrange a hands-on painting session where children decorated hoarding boards that would be installed around the playground. Students designed their own stencils and, under the guidance of the Dulux Decorator Centre team, mixed paints to create their own unique colours.
Cuprinol paints were provided free of charge, along with all application tools. The result was a bold, joy-filled installation that reflects the creativity and personality of the children at Craneswater School.
Henry Salmon, Building Surveyor at Portsmouth City Council, said:
“The team at Dulux Decorator Centre provided invaluable support throughout the design and construction phases of the project, for all of our decoration requirements.
“The advice on specific colour schemes for SEN spaces was extremely beneficial and has helped to create a new dedicated teaching space at the school for children with special educational needs.”
The transformed lodge now stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, thoughtful design and a commitment to community impact.
To find out more about Dulux Decorator Centre and the specification support available, visit: www.duluxdecoratorcentre.co.uk/ paint-specification
From ambition to action
How education estates can hit sustainability targets through smarter hygiene strategies
As the education sector faces mounting pressure to meet sustainability and net-zero goals, hygiene procurement is emerging as an impactful, but often overlooked, opportunity for driving real change.
Ramona Shellard, sales director at WEPA Professional UK, outlines how facilities and estates teams within education settings can reframe hygiene as a strategic tool to drive sustainability, while still maintaining performance.
From daily purchasing decisions
to long-term supplier strategies, schools, colleges, and universities are beginning to reframe hygiene as a practical enabler of environmental progress.
Recent data from WEPA Professional UK, based on a survey of 250 education facilities professionals, reveals how much this shift is currently underway and where progress is being held back. The findings show how schools and colleges are navigating increased pressure to reduce their environmental impact, while
balancing tighter budgets and rising hygiene standards and expectations.
Study findings for tailoring strategies with an impact
Our new research reveals that while the education sector is united across sustainability ambitions, the priorities, barriers, and behaviours differ significantly across institutions. This underlines the importance of a tailored approach to hygiene procurement to meet sustainability goals effectively.
More than 80% of education
estates already have a formal sustainability strategy in place, and a further 10% say one is in development. This marks a sector-wide shift from ambition to action, with sustainability now embedded into many procurement decisions sector wide. Yet, the path to implementation isn’t consistent. For example, while 90% of primary schools report that they have clear sustainability policies or targets in place, just 38% of MultiAcademy Trusts (MATs) say the same, reflecting the complexity of balancing budgets, procurement and consistency across multiple sites.
The data also highlights the importance of procurement cycles, with 50% of facilities managers reviewing their hygiene suppliers or products every 6-11 months, showing that most estates operate on a predictable procurement schedule aligned with school terms. Primary schools are the most agile, reviewing their cycles most frequently, with 55% reviewing 6-11 months, while
MATs review the least often, with 38% reassessing every 2-3 years. The longer cycles here reflect the scale of centralised planning and contracting, preventing less reactive strategies, highlighted in only 3% of respondents saying they only review products in response to issues or price changes. Together, these findings highlight that while sustainability is on the agenda for nearly all educational institutions, implementation is influenced by size, structure and procurement culture. A one-size-fitsall approach won’t work, so hygiene solutions must be tailored to suit each education setting.
How sustainable hygiene fits with ESG requirements
As education estates face increasing expectations around Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance, hygiene is emerging as a practical way to support all three pillars, with minimal disruption and measurable results.
Switching to low-emission
products like Miscanthus-based paper offers a route to Scope 3 carbon reductions, which is often the most challenging area for universities and MATs to influence. As part of broader net-zero planning, these alternative hygiene solutions also come with verified certifications such as the EU Ecolabel, which demonstrate lower water and energy consumption in the manufacturing processes.
Beyond these benefits, high-quality and reliable washroom facilities also support student and staff wellbeing and contribute to inclusive education environments and accessible facilities, helping meet both social and governance objectives within ESG frameworks. For educational settings striving to deliver equitable environments for students and staff alike, these changes matter.
Challenging perception against performance
Hygiene decisions made across educational estates must carefully
balance multiple, often competing priorities: cost-efficiency, product performance, supply reliability and environmental impact. Despite progress, outdated perceptions of sustainable hygiene solutions remain a barrier to achieving net-zero goals, with many facilities teams still associating ‘eco-friendly’ with ‘low quality’ – especially when a product feels or looks unfamiliar. According to our data, 88% of facilities and procurement managers cite performance concerns as the number one barrier to adopting more sustainable hygiene options.
This disconnect between perceived performance and proven capability limits adoption and is the biggest barrier to sustainable hygiene for institutions. In reality, modern
sustainable hygiene systems offer consistent performance, reduced lifetime cost and reliability for busy education environments due to fewer refills and improved stock.
Rethinking sustainable hygiene with reliable innovations
Sustainable hygiene is no longer a compromise for educational settings. Performance and sustainability can now go hand-in-hand, even in highpressure areas such as universities and colleges.
One standout innovation is using Miscanthus grass as the fibre for hygiene paper. This is a fast-growing, low-input crop, offering a renewable alternative to traditional wood pulp and significantly reducing the carbon footprint without compromising
quality. It requires no fertiliser, minimal water, and regenerates annually, making it a highly sustainable raw material. When used in paper production, it results in a low-emission and high-quality hygiene solution suitable for education settings.
Similarly, refillable dispensing systems are an emerging game changer for schools of all sizes. These systems support circular practices by reducing single-use plastic and minimising waste, a key priority for many schools.
Together, these solutions demonstrate that performance and sustainability can co-exist while offering long-term value and a reduced environmental footprint.
Using hygiene solutions that work harder for you
From student wellbeing to long-term cost savings, sustainable hygiene is more than a tick-box exercise - it’s a strategic enabler in delivering education outcomes and net-zero targets.
By challenging outdated perceptions and adopting proven, reliable innovations like recycled fibre or Miscanthus-based paper and refillable dispensing systems, educational institutions can align procurement practices with broader ESG priorities and deliver measurable impact in their sustainability journey.
Tailored, scalable and highperforming solutions already exist. With the right hygiene solutions and approach, educational institutions can move from ambition to action with confidence in reducing their environmental impact for the long term.
Methodology
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 18+ junior/middle/senior managers and director-level respondents who work in educational facilities. The data was collected between 14.05.2025 - 19.05.2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
Ramona Shellard, Sales Director, WEPA Professional UK
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New term, new risks
The crucial role of a fire risk assessment ahead of the new academic year – and who’s responsible by Bruce Robins, Director of CheckFire
Robust fire safety in schools, colleges, and universities is a legal and moral imperative. Of all the risks educational institutions may face, fire hazards remain one of the most devastating – yet they’re often preventable. With closures during the summer break, key decision makers and duty holders have a crucial window to get fire safety preparations under way. It is the ideal time to prioritise compliance with fire safety regulations and ensure the continued protection of students, staff, and property ahead of the autumn term.
Schools, colleges and universities
are dynamic, high-occupancy spaces where the risk of fire may be heightened by a variety of factors, including outdated infrastructure, the increased use of lithium-ion battery powered devices, the use of flammable teaching materials, and even arson.
A comprehensive and clearly communicated fire safety plan ensures everyone knows of potential fire hazards and understands the correct precautions and procedures should an emergency take hold.
Understanding regulations for educational premises
The government outlines how fire
risk assessments, and the ensuing fire safety precautions, are intended for premises where the main use of the building, or part of the building, is an educational premises. This includes schools, colleges, universities, Sunday schools, academies, adult education centres, after-school clubs, outdoor education centres, and music schools.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the main piece of legislation governing fire safety in non-domestic buildings in England and Wales. It places a clear legal duty on educational premises to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors. Under this legislation,
the responsibility for fire safety falls to the ‘responsible person’ – typically the headteacher, governing body, or facilities manager. These individuals must take reasonable steps to reduce the risk of fire and ensure procedures are in place for the safe evacuation of the building in the event of an emergency. This includes overseeing the conducting and regular review of the fire risk assessment, maintaining appropriate fire detection and warning systems, providing adequate means of escape, and ensuring staff are properly trained.
The premises’ summer closure presents an ideal opportunity to review and update the existing fire risk assessment, conduct thorough inspections, and implement maintenance work and system testing to ensure every element is fit for purpose to welcome building users back for the new academic year. Time should be taken to consider any changes to the building, occupancy patterns, or curriculum activities that may affect fire risk and hazards – and the findings of the fire risk assessment may change as a consequence.
Fire risk assessment must-know
It is the role of the responsible person to oversee a fire risk assessment undertaken by a trustworthy fire safety expert or ‘competent person’. A crucial element of this assessment is identifying
potential hazards found around the building and recognising who may be at risk. In an educational setting, this may be students working in unsupervised areas or visitors unfamiliar with the building.
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the responsible person should also appoint one or more competent persons (depending on the size and complexity of the premises) to support the implementation of preventative and protective measures. The fire risk assessment should pay particular attention to the identification of vulnerable individuals – such as those with health conditions or impairments, special educational needs, or very young children – to highlight clear plans to minimise the likelihood of a fire breaking out and reduce the impact of each risk.
Once fire risks are identified and eliminated as far as is reasonably possible, steps should be taken to reduce any remaining risks and implement fire precautions where necessary. Key fire safety provisions typically include early warning systems to provide immediate alerts, as well as the installation, and annual service, of the correct type of fire extinguisher for the fire risk within that setting – whether it’s a Class A fire risk given proximity to paper or wood, for example, or a Class F fire risk found in the kitchen. Furthermore, a managed evacuation
plan is a legal requirement in educational settings. Escape routes must be adequately signposted and kept clear, fire doors should not be obstructed, and emergency lighting should function correctly. It is the responsible person’s duty to ensure the plan is in place, regularly reviewed, and clearly communicated to all students, staff, and visitors. Fire drills must be carried out at least annually, or as determined by the fire risk assessment, with the government stating the preference for a fire drill each term.
The rising risk of lithium-ion battery fires in education
As technology becomes increasingly integral to education, the use of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries is commonplace. Whether tablets, smartphones, laptops, or e-readers, these rechargeable devices enhance learning but introduce a significant and unique fire hazard. UK fire brigades now attend a minimum of three lithium-ion battery fires a day, according to QBE. The insurance company reported a significant 93% increase in lithiumion battery fires between 2022 and 2024. The danger lies in thermal runaway, which is where a battery rapidly overheats, bursts, and triggers a chain reaction – leading to difficult-to-extinguish fires that release toxic gas and smoke. The explosive nature of the molten metal
and the degree of collateral fires it causes are vast, causing peripheral fires to spread to surrounding areas. This type of fire is more fierce than an ‘ordinary’ fire – necessitating the need to educate students and staff on proper handling and safe charging of these devices.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 has been updated to include the consideration of lithium-ion batteries in fire risk assessments, requiring high-risk environments like educational settings to update their safety protocols. Potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries should be addressed and so it’s imperative that the installation of specialised fire extinguishers that are specifically designed to tackle lithium-ion battery fires is considered. Educators and school administrators must understand and stay alert to warning signs of potential battery failure, such as devices overheating, or swelling, and act quickly to remove the affected device from use before disposing of it in accordance with proper procedures.
The worrying rise in lithium-ion battery fires highlights the urgent need for educational institutions to build out their thorough understanding of these unique fire risks and to update fire risk assessments and fire safety measures accordingly.
Collaboration with local fire services
Fire risk assessments must be reviewed and updated regularly, particularly when there are significant changes to the building, its layout, and how it is used. To be sure of ongoing safety, all fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and evacuation routes, must be routinely inspected, annually serviced, and sufficiently maintained by qualified professionals to remain in proper working order and comply with British Standards.
For schools and other educational institutions, building strong partnerships with local fire departments and aligning with current safety regulations, as well as keeping abreast of evolving ones, is crucial. Education authorities
should work closely with fire safety professionals to continually refine fire safety protocols and ensure compliance with legal obligations. An ongoing partnership can support schools, colleges, and universities to stay informed about the most effective fire prevention and response practices.
A fire risk assessment is a vital component to ensure a safe and secure learning environment. However, the report is simply a first fundamental step and should not be treated as a tick-box compliance checklist. It is an evolving document under regular review to stay ahead of traditional and newly arising fire hazards in this high-risk setting. Furthermore, fire safety requires active engagement from all building users to embed a culture of awareness and preparedness. Consistently reviewing and updating fire safety measures – and taking advantage of the quieter period ahead of the new academic year –will ensure schools can mitigate fire risk, maintain effective management of their estates, and prioritise safe learning for all.
Carina Svensen
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Tag, you’re it
BIM and asset management
Paul Thompson, Head of Specification and Openings Studio for ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, discusses BIM within the ever-evolving landscape of facilities management, with a focus on the importance of QR codes and asset tagging.
Ensuring ongoing maintenance and compliance of assets within the built environment is a multifaceted and complex challenge, The stakes are high, and failure to comply with fire safety legislation can mean
facilities managers are at risk of fines and criminal charges, but most importantly, it could result in the loss of life.
Modern software systems are revolutionising the way buildings are managed, with an increase the adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) solutions. The latest NBS Digital Construction Report[1] found 70% of respondents use BIM, with a further 18% planning to adopt it in the next five years.
BIM not only streamlines operational processes but also
enhances compliance with standards like BS 8644-1 Digital management of fire safety information, providing a comprehensive digital solution for managing facilities effectively.
BS 8644-1 sets out guidelines for the digital storage and retrieval of information related to a building’s assets. The integration of BS 8644-1 into BIM models enhances the effectiveness of facilities management practices.
By digitising door information and linking it directly to the BIM environment, it can help to
streamline data retrieval and facilitate proactive maintenance planning, ensuring that door systems remain functional and compliant over time.
BS 8644-1 promotes data exchange between different stakeholders involved in door management. Whether collaborating with manufacturers, maintenance contractors, or regulatory authorities, facilities managers can rely on this standard to ensure consistency and accuracy in door-related information exchange.
Unlocking insights with QR codes and asset tags
The integration of QR codes and asset tags into BIM models has highlighted a shift in asset tracking and maintenance operations. These digital identifiers serve as a bridge between the physical components of a building and their corresponding
digital representations within the BIM environment.
By assigning unique QR codes to each door set, it allows facilities managers to access pertinent information instantly with a simple scan. These QR codes can be affixed to doors, frames, hinges, locks and other critical components, providing quick access to maintenance records, installation manuals and warranty information.
In the event of a maintenance issue or security concern, facilities managers can use their mobile devices to scan the QR code, enabling them to identify the door set, access its maintenance history, and initiate corrective actions promptly. In turn, enhancing operational efficiency, minimise downtime, and ensures compliance with maintenance protocols for door sets.
Similarly, asset tags play a huge role in asset management
and maintenance within the BIM ecosystem, particularly concerning door sets. These physical tags, affixed to door frames or other components during construction or retrofitting, contain unique identifiers that link directly to their digital counterparts in the BIM model.
As building managers navigate the built environment, they can easily locate door sets and access relevant information by scanning the corresponding asset tags. Whether conducting routine inspections, performing preventative maintenance, or addressing security concerns, asset tags streamline asset identification and data retrieval, allowing decisions to be made quickly and effectively.
Introducing Openings Studio™
With this in mind, ASSA ABLOY Openings Solutions offers Openings Studio™, a comprehensive platform
that integrates detailed product data sheets and certification information. This integration equips facilities managers with a tool to verify that each specified component in their building meets current standards and regulations.
The application provides visual representations of not only the bespoke product but also indicative imagery of product in-situ within the 3D model. Each asset carries
all relevant technical and design data, and as this is a live working environment it captures and logs progressive design changes throughout design and construction.
Every door logged in Openings Studio is automatically assigned a unique asset tag, which can be affixed to the door as either a QR code or RFID Tag, enabling direct access to the door details, including installation, inspection, and service history.
The asset tag functionality enables direct access from the Mobile App to information such as product specification, hardware schedule, product information, inspection reports, digital images, and change management tracking.
The integration of QR codes and asset tags into BIM software for door sets represents a significant advancement for facilities/building managers. Through digital identifiers, they can optimise maintenance operations for these door sets. As technology evolves, the relationship between BIM and QR technology only promises to drive efficiency, compliance, and security within a range of environments.
For more information please visit www.assaabloy.com/uk/en
Paul Thompson
Inspirational learning environments
• Constructor (modular building supply) and main contractor (as required) that offers a full turnkey solution approach.
• 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.
• We are recognised by a number of key frameworks, which are the DfE MMC1 LOT 1, CCS, NHS-SBS and the LHC.
Why an EMS is the Key by Clive Bodenham, Founder of Clarke Controls Smart energy, smarter schools
Ask any facility manager in the education sector what challenges they face, and they’ll likely reel off a long list spanning rising energy bills across sprawling estates, improving student comfort, meeting sustainability targets, complying with complex legislation and much more. With many schools, academies and colleges operating out of ageing buildings or split-site campuses, those pressures are only intensifying.
Yet there is a solution that doesn’t involve major disruption or high capital expenditure: an Energy Management System (EMS). At Clarke Controls, we help educational institutions of all sizes reduce heating costs and carbon emissions by up to 25% year-on-year.
For estates and facilities managers, an EMS offers a smart, scalable way to take control of energy use across classrooms, offices, sports halls and support buildings. Whether you’re responsible for a standalone secondary school or a multi-academy trust, a modern EMS will reduce cost, boost comfort and help you deliver on your sustainability goals. And hopefully make that list of challenges slightly easier to tackle!
Understanding the Education Energy Challenge
Heating and energy efficiency remain some of the most expensive operational issues in UK schools. According to recent data, heating alone can account for up to 75% of total energy usage in a typical
education building. And unlike other sectors, educational estates often feature a wide mix of building types – from Victorian-era halls to new-build classrooms, all with vastly different heating and control requirements. Factor in irregular occupancy patterns, varying usage schedules and large open spaces like sports halls or assembly areas, and the result is a high-risk environment for energy waste.
Those issues are compounded by system failures – systems are left running unnecessarily, doors are left open without shut-off triggers or entire wings are heated for the sake of one occupied classroom. Manual controls, if used at all, are rarely monitored or optimised, leaving energy bills to spiral and students or
staff to suffer through uncomfortable conditions.
This is exactly where a purpose-built EMS comes into its own.
What Is an Energy Management System (EMS)?
An EMS is a cloud-based platform designed to monitor, control and optimise your heating and energy use in real time. Unlike a traditional building management system (BMS), which may handle everything from lighting to access control, a modern EMS focuses exclusively on heating and energy performance – making it a more targeted, intelligent and cost-effective solution.
At Clarke Controls, we design EMS platforms that work with your existing systems. You don’t need to rip out heating controls or shut down parts of your estate. Our EMS is built to integrate with old and new infrastructure alike, giving you immediate insight and control over how and when energy is used.
Real-World Benefits for Schools and Campuses
1. Reduce Heating Costs by up to 25% - One of the most effective ways to cut costs by using an EMS is by dividing buildings into zones
and automating heating based on real-time usage patterns. This prevents unnecessary energy use and only heats the areas where it’s needed. Schools can avoid heating entire blocks for one or two rooms, and ensure sports halls or assembly areas are only warmed when scheduled. Historically, our clients have seen their energy use reduce by up to 25% providing year-on-year savings.
2. Improve Occupant Comfort and Learning Conditions - Maintaining stable, comfortable temperatures in classrooms is vital for student concentration and wellbeing. With zoned control, the EMS ensures each teaching space is kept at optimal temperatures –without over or under-heating neighbouring rooms. The system is also tamper-proof, reducing the risk of staff overriding settings or leaving windows open with radiators running. This improves consistency and reduces temperature disputes across departments. Boost buttons allow for temporary heating in cold-prone zones, without reprogramming the entire system, and are ideal for exam periods, staff meetings or out-of-school use
(i.e. sports teams using the sports hall).
3. Manage Multi-Building Estates Remotely - For academies, trusts, or colleges operating across multiple sites, a cloud-based EMS allows facilities managers to monitor and adjust heating settings across the entire estate from a single dashboard. Whether you’re on-site or off-site, you have full access to live data, alerts and controls – helping you respond quickly to issues or inefficiencies. From turning down heating in unused blocks during holidays to adjusting for daylight saving time or weather events, everything can be done remotely and securely and across multi-site estates.
4. Simplify Sustainability Compliance and Net Zero Targets - As the education sector faces growing pressure to decarbonise, an EMS can be a vital tool for reducing Scope 1 (direct) and Scope 2 (indirect) emissions. By reducing gas consumption, improving system efficiency and providing real-time energy tracking, the EMS helps you move measurably toward your net-zero goals. Large school academies also have to be compliant with the Streamlined
Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework. Having an EMS will help produce the necessary data for environmental audits, funding applications or ESG reporting.
5. Scalable Architecture - Whether you’re managing a primary school or a 30-site multi-academy trust, an EMS can grow with your estate. Its cloud-based architecture allows you to monitor, control, and compare energy use across multiple locations from one central dashboard – ideal for both small sites and large, more complex portfolios.
Supporting the Shift to Low-Carbon Heating
As many schools explore heat pumps, biomass systems or district heating schemes, an EMS can help coordinate these technologies to ensure they operate as efficiently as possible. An EMS delivers real-time control and insight, helping you maximise return on investment from any low-carbon heating upgrade.
Investing in the Future of Education Estates
Sadly, the government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme has been wound up after awarding £3.5 billion in grants across nearly 1,400
public sector projects.
There are still avenues for government funding available via the School Capital Fund, with £640 million set to be allocated in the 2026-27 financial year and a further £400 million the year after. Another fund is the £500 million energy efficiency grant to schools, sixth-form colleges, and further education colleges from the Department for Education (DfE)
An EMS often qualifies under these schemes as a low-disruption, high-impact solution that delivers measurable carbon savings. By starting with smart control, schools can make immediate progress toward net zero without waiting for largescale infrastructure investment. It also provides the data and insights needed to plan future improvements.
Final Thoughts
Energy Management Systems are no longer just a luxury for large educational establishments – they are a vital tool for cost-conscious, sustainability-focused education estates.
They’re a cost-effective and timeefficient way for facility managers in educational institutions to manage costs, carbon emissions and make their estate more efficient and sustainable.
About Clarke Controls
Clarke Controls are Energy Management System specialists who regularly save clients over 25% on their energy bills. We’re a leading manufacturer and installer of commercial Energy Management Systems (EMS) with over two decades of experience and nationwide clients, including Marshalls and Wickes. Serving businesses of all sizes across the UK and Ireland, our EMS helps clients cut energy consumption, saving over 25% on heating and energy bills while helping to reduce their carbon footprint.
We offer a comprehensive range of services, including energy strategy formulation, energy audits and cutting-edge LED lighting systems. Our mission is to save you money, help the environment and lower your energy consumption through engagement and practical solutions. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, we are your experienced partner in achieving your energy efficiency goals.
For further information please visit www.clarke-controls.co.uk
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