Prestige Interiors Highlights Urgency of School Refurbishments Ahead of September Term

As the new academic year approaches, Prestige Interiors, a specialist in commercial refurbishment, has emphasised the critical need for schools to focus on upgrading their learning environments during the summer break.

This appeal follows the Education Select Committee’s 2026 report, Foundations of Learning, which highlighted the pressing requirement for sustained investment in England’s ageing school infrastructure. Supporting this, a recent survey by the school leaders’ union NAHT revealed that 51% of schools in England have buildings or areas rendered unusable or unsuitable due to problems such as leaking roofs, dampness, mould, and outdated facilities.

With pupils away for six weeks over the summer, Prestige Interiors points out that this period offers an ideal opportunity for schools to undertake refurbishment projects with minimal disruption. Tasks such as replacing worn flooring, redecorating classrooms, and upgrading reception areas, washrooms, and staff facilities can enhance safety and create more inviting spaces tailored to contemporary educational needs.

The significance of investing in school environments extends beyond mere appearance. Research from the University of Salford’s internationally recognised HEAD (Holistic Evidence and Design) Project found that factors like lighting, air quality, temperature, colour, and classroom layout can influence up to 16% of the variation in pupils’ academic progress throughout a school year. This underscores the tangible impact that well-designed learning spaces can have on educational outcomes.

Victoria Beacham, Director at Prestige Interiors, stated: “Back to school isn’t just about new uniforms and fresh stationery; it’s also about ensuring pupils return to learning environments that support their wellbeing, engagement and success. The summer holidays offer schools a valuable window to complete refurbishment work without interrupting teaching, allowing essential improvements to be made before classrooms fill up again in September.”

She added that the advantages of high-quality learning environments extend to staff wellbeing, fostering workplaces that teachers and support staff are proud of, while also creating positive first impressions for parents, visitors, and prospective students.

“Schools are expected to do more than ever with their buildings,” Victoria continued. “Whether it’s replacing tired flooring, improving lighting and acoustics, modernising reception areas or refreshing communal spaces, investing in the school environment is ultimately an investment in the people who use it every day. Well-maintained, thoughtfully designed spaces help schools make the best possible start to every academic year.”

With many schools already planning refurbishment projects for upcoming holiday periods, Prestige Interiors encourages schools, academies, and multi-academy trusts to schedule improvement programmes well in advance. This approach ensures that projects are completed efficiently and with minimal disruption to learning.