Why is Strategic Estates Management Important for Schools?

Ensuring a Safe and Suitable Learning Environment

One of the primary benefits of strategic estates management is ensuring a safe and suitable learning environment for students and staff. Proper management of school facilities, including maintenance and repairs, is crucial for the well-being of everyone at school. We also know, and can scientifically prove, how the school estate contributes to the overall educational experience and attainment, as pupils are more likely to excel in a well-maintained environment.

Reducing and Prioritising Maintenance Needs

Effective estates management helps schools reduce and prioritise their maintenance needs. Deferring maintenance is costly in the long run, so it cannot be put off just to save a few pounds today. By planning and scheduling maintenance work in advance, schools can minimise disruptions to the learning process and ensure that limited resources are allocated appropriately. This allows for a more efficient use of funds and helps avoid costly emergency repairs or untimely replacements.

Controlling Running Costs

If your school estate is well managed, it will play a significant role in controlling your running costs. By identifying areas where costs can be reduced, schools can save money and allocate resources more effectively towards improving the quality of education. This can include reducing energy consumption, streamlining procurement processes, and optimising the use of available space. One of the easiest things to do is to stick to the status quo, but have you ever considered carrying out periodic space audits to assess the utilisation of different areas of your school? The process of merely carrying out an evaluation can identify areas that are consistently under-utilised that may be better suited to accommodate changing needs, allowing you to operate your school more efficiently.

Enhancing the Reputation of the School

A well-maintained and efficiently managed estate reflects positively on the reputation of a school. First impressions last, and visitors to the school will clearly notice the high standards of the facilities they walk into. If the school is well-maintained, clean, and organised, it signals that there is a strong sense of order, care, and security. People are more likely to feel safe, comfortable, and positive about themselves or their children spending time in such a venue, as it demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality learning environment. We also know that the DfE published a statistic in the Good Estates Management for Schools Guide that suggests 1 in 5 teachers will leave a school if they do not feel this sense of premises safety. So a well-maintained school can also help attract and retain talented staff.