Low-carbon heating key to providing affordable, safe, and sustainable student accommodation
How Labour’s victory in the General Election will impact on the education property market
Discussing the untapped potential of transforming empty commercial premises into early years education settings
Since the last edition of Education Property magazine, there has been a change of government, with the Labour Party taking power.
In the run-up to the ballot, the party put forward a number of proposals to improve education, including increased funding for schools, enhanced teacher training and recruitment, greater support for students with special educational needs, and a focus on lifelong learning.
And, in the King’s Speech during the state opening of Parliament on 17 July, ministers reiterated their commitment to boosting the education system, with plans for a Children’s Wellbeing Bill, which will put children and their wellbeing at the centre of the education and children’s social care systems, and make changes to ensure children are safe, healthy, happy, and treated fairly.
But the Government was largely silent on the issue of capital spending on the education estate, with no firm commitment on RAAC, asbestos, or the massive backlog maintenance challenge facing learning establishments across the country.
This will leave many schools in limbo as they face the unenviable task of trying to maintain their estate in the face of rising costs and tough targets around carbon reduction and sustainability.
In the coming months, as the sector prepares for the
About Jo: Jo is the editor of Education Property, having joined Nexus Media in November.
She has been specialising in design and construction best practice for the past 14 years, working on the Building Better Healthcare Awards and editing both
start of the new academic year in September, the Government will need to consider how it can address these challenges and support schools and other education providers to enhance their estates as, after all, the built environment is critical to the delivery of the improved education services the party has said it is committed to.
The sector will also be looking closely at the announcement of an overhaul of the planning system, which could make it easier for operators and investors to acquire and develop new sites and existing properties for use as educational facilities, particularly to meet the need for additional special education needs and disabilities (SEND) and nursery school places.
Education Property you can read more about the impact of the change of government on the sector; including an interview with Oliver Weir of Nexus Pine and news of a newly-released report from Christie & Co.
There are also indepth features on school security challenges and low-carbon heating solutions for student housing schemes.
Read on to find out more.
Jo Makosinski Editor Education Property
Building Better Healthcare and Healthcare Design & Management magazines.
She has a special interest in the design of public buildings including schools, nurseries, colleges, hospitals, health centres, and libraries.
A ground-breaking ceremony has been held to officially mark the start of building work at the state-of-the-art education and community campus in Faifley, West Dunbartonshire.
Members from Morrison Construction’s site team were joined by Councillor Clare Steel, chairman of educational services for West Dunbartonshire Council; and Councillor David McBride, chairman of infrastructure, regeneration, and economic development, who both broke ground at the future campus.
The project includes the new Edinbarnet Primary School and Auchnacraig and Lennox Early Learning and Childcare Centres, as well as an additional support needs base, an education resource centre, a new community library, and
community facilities to replace the Skypoint Centre.
Also included in the campus will be an allweather sports pitch and an external Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) to allow students the opportunity to stay active in all weather conditions.
And the campus will feature materials inspired by the historic Cochno Stone, which is a large cup and ring marked rock sited within Faifley, which dates back to the Bronze Age.
Councillor Steel said: “This new campus will enhance learning for generations of children and young people in Clydebank.
“The campus will be the most-significant capital investment ever made within this community.”
Councillor McBride added: “I am
delighted to cut the first sod marking the start of building works for the new educational campus in Faifley.
“Today, we can now proceed with our ambitious plan of creating the new educational and community facilities for the children and community of Faifley.”
And David Ewing, managing director of Morrison Construction Building Central, commented: “This is an exciting project that will provide state-of-art educational facilities for the local community, and I look forward to seeing the works progress over the coming months.”
The campus is being funded through the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Improvement Programme in partnership with Hub West Scotland, Holmes Miller Architects, and Morrison Construction.
Caddick Construction has been appointed to build a new 24,000sq ft extension at Loreto Sixth Form College in Hulme, Manchester.
Work is now underway on the new threestorey campus building, which is being constructed in Moss Road West adjacent to the existing campus in Chichester Road South.
Planning permission for the expansion was secured in September last year, following which Caddick Construction undertook a series of preparatory works under a pre-construction services agreement.
With an emphasis on environmental sustainability and minimising operational carbon, the new building will have 39.8% of its electrical demands met by renewable sources.
Sustainable features include air source heat pumps, solar panels, passive ventilation systems, and night cooling. Pupils and teachers will also be
encouraged to use sustainable forms of transport, with the introduction of EV charging and bike storage.
The new building will sit alongside the existing college, with additional facilities to enhance the learning environment and curriculum delivery, including 20 classrooms, a lecture theatre with a seating
The work will also include partial refurbishment of existing buildings with new science labs, new catering facilities, and a 110sq m outdoor canopied seating area.
A science garden and landscaped reflection spaces will also be created to maximise the use of green space.
Facilities include practical teaching classrooms for design technology and reprographics, food technology, science
Tilbury Douglas, Altus Education Partnership, and the Department for Education (DfE).
The new three-storey building, named after former Manchester University chancellor, Lemn Sissay, was constructed using cloudbased collaborative technology and lean construction methods, including an offsitemanufactured ‘kit of parts’.
The school’s NZCiO design embeds efficient, all-electric, low-energy building fabric, using photovoltaic panels that balance electricity use with low embodied carbon
1,400 pupils moved into the new building as Tilbury Douglas continues with phase two, carefully demolishing the existing Laingspan building to minimise educational disruption during the exam period.
Additionally, hard-paved and grassy social areas will be sheltered with newly-installed canopies featuring photovoltaic panels.
The project has achieved an impressive social value return on investment of over £7m, which includes more than £1,000 of donations in kind for the Trussell Trust Food Bank, 98% local spend, 626 weeks of apprentice training, and an innovative partnership with DKMS charity on site to
against blood cancers.
Martin Horne, regional director for the North West at Tilbury Douglas, said: “The ceremony marks a significant milestone as this building stands as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of everyone involved.”
Phil Shaw, managing director building (North), added: “The Tilbury Douglas team effectively guided the DfE through a collaborative and well-informed engagement process, presenting clear and actionable options to achieve net zero in school operations.
“This successful experience will be invaluable as we partner with the DfE to deliver eight more low-carbon schools in the North West, ensuring a sustainable future for education.”
Kier has been appointed by the London South East Colleges (LSEC) to redevelop its Greenwich campus.
As part of the project, which has an overall value of £47m, Kier has been awarded a contract which will see the existing buildings demolished and a state-of-the-art educational facility constructed.
Awarded through the Procure Partnership Framework, the 5,654sq m, five-storey college will provide new facilities that are specifically designed to support learning.
Alongside classrooms, there will be wellbeing spaces and a student welfare area, as well as specialist rooms to aid student
interests, including a Mac studio, a training kitchen, and learning resource centre.
The design of the college has
a sustainability focus, with a BREAAM ‘Outstanding’ rating being targeted.
The building will include
rooftop air source heat pumps combined with a highly-efficient ambient loop heating and cooling system.
On the roof an array of photovoltaic panels are combined with an intensive solar green roofing system.
The campus will remain open and operational throughout the construction work.
In addition to the new building, 294 homes are being built on the site with 50% designated as affordable housing.
The £47m project is being supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the Greater London Authority, and the Department for Education (DfE).
An independent school in Farnham has opened a new, state-of-the-art school building, a sustainably-designed facility which will connect pupils to the natural environment and inspire them while they learn.
To celebrate the launch, Barfield Prep School held an opening ceremony attended by the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Alan Earwalker.
Barfield School enlisted the help of TG Escapes to design and build the new facilities.
TG Escapes used a method of modular construction that creates a cost-effective permanent structure faster, with less disruption than traditional construction, ensuring educational continuity for staff and students.
Its bespoke timber buildings are sustainable, inspirational, and built around biophilic design principles, which benefit stress levels and engagement.
The new building at Barfield Prep School, which took four months to complete, includes a new dining hall.
The use of full-height windows running from floor to ceiling brings the outside in and the room offers panoramic views across nature and ample natural light, making lunchtimes more pleasurable for the pupils and staff.
Other new additions include a commercial kitchen with cold and dry stores, a potwash area, an office, toilet, a plant room, and an external veranda overlooking the head teacher’s lawn.
Andy Boyle, Barfield Prep School’s headmaster, said: “Since I joined the school, the need for a dedicated dining hall has been something I have wanted to address.
the team managed to go quietly about their
after-school prep sessions and prep snacks
“The pupils now have views of nature and high levels of natural light and ventilation —
Just days after Northern Ireland Health Minister, Paul Givan, unveiled a list of 87 schools which need replacing, the Government has announced capital funding for 15 of the projects.
In his capital funding allocations for 2024-25, Givan secured an additional £80m for education this year, which will allow 15 important new-build and extension and refurbishment projects for schools from all sectors to proceed to construction.
Visting Bangor Central Integrated Primary School, one the schools which will now proceed to tender and construction, the Minister said “I am delighted to be at Bangor Central Integrated Primary School where children and teachers will benefit from a £10m new school.
“When the UK Government removed ringfenced Fresh Start funding, I moved this project and others to my conventional major works programme.
“It will now proceed as envisaged, as too will the project for Millennium Integrated Primary School.”
He added: “Today’s significant announcement will see 15 schools benefiting from new state-of-the-art facilities for young people from Belfast to Ballymena to Enniskillen and beyond.
“The investment will also provide a
welcome boost to the construction industry over the next number of years.”
He also announced a ‘series of targeted, smaller-scale investment programmes to support and enhance the delivery of the curriculum in our schools’.
Potential schemes in this area will include specialist curriculum accommodation at post-primary; outdoor play, and PE in the primary phase; and curriculum resources and equipment more widely.
“It is my priority to ensure the educational experiences of as many children and young people as possible across Northern Ireland are impacted positively by capital investment,” said Givan.
The opening capital budget for education in 2024-25 is £254m.
This will allow continued investment in 10 major school build projects currently in contract or on site and digital infrastructure
across the schools’ estate; keep schools open and safe; and provide much-needed school places for the most-vulnerable pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN), for which the Government has earmarked over £50m.
It is also planned to commence construction of the flagship Strule Shared Education Campus in Omagh, which will provide five new post-primary schools.
The school estate in Northern Ireland currently includes 1,116 schools with an estimated capital value of over £3bn.
Seven new-build primary schools will now progress to procurement and construction — Bangor Central Integrated Primary School, Crawfordsburn Primary School, Edendork Primary School, Glenwood Primary School, Mary Queen of Peace Primary School, Millennium Integrated Primary, and Scoil an Droichid.
Eight primary and post-primary schools will also receive investment through major extension and refurbishment and new build construction projects — Abbey Community College, Carniny Primary School, Kilronan Special School, Lurgan Model Integrated Primary School , St John’s Primary School (Kingsisland), St Malachy’s College, St Mary’s Primary School (Barr), and St Kevin’s College.
Construction work has been completed on the expansion of Pentrych Primary School in Cardiff and the creation of its first nursery provision.
The new development, undertaken by contractor, Knox and Wells, has included a broad scope of works including a new singlestorey extension housing two classrooms with their own external play/teaching area including canopies, a new nursery with toilets and changing room, teaching kitchen, quiet room, and external teaching space with canopies.
A new toilet block, staff office, and headteacher’s office have also been delivered, as well as hard and soft landscaping, an infiltration basin, and a rain garden.
And the scheme included the demolition of the existing single-storey toilet block and double demountable classrooms.
During a ceremony last month pupils,
parents, staff, governors, and members of the community were invited to take part in a range of activities from natural crafts, campfire building, and party games, and every child made a pendant with the new school logo on as a memento and designed and painted a commemorative pebble to be placed in the school’s new courtyard area.
Guests were then given the chance to tour the new school building and view an exhibition of photos of Pentyrch Primary School over time.
Headteacher, Sarah Coombes, said: “The school is on an incredible journey and through the power of collaboration we have now been able to provide a nursery for the children of Pentyrch along with a school extension to accommodate greater numbers of pupils from the local area.
“The newly-established wrap-around care and an after-school provision also provides
much-needed support for working families.
“After years of planning, we have been able to realise the dream and we are delighted to officially open our new and vibrant building.”
A Cardiff Council spokesperson added:
“The completion of works marks an exciting new chapter for Pentych Primary School and pupils, staff, and parents are already enjoying the benefits of the new and enhanced facilities provided by the scheme.
“The Cardiff Local Development Plan means the school can accommodate the increased demand for school places in the area as well as enabling families in Pentyrch to access nursery education with wraparound childcare, and for the first time can continue with their primary education on the same site.”
The scheme represents an almost £3m investment and was joint funded through capital funding and Section 106 contributions.
Construction work is underway on a new modern home for Paisley Grammar School. The campus is a state-of-the-art facility and will replace the existing school.
Due to open by August 2026 on vacant land in Renfrew Road, it will boast two full-size sports pitches, a 300-seat theatre, as well as a fitness suite, dance and drama studio, and music suite.
Main contractor, Morrison Construction, has been on site since March delivering groundworks to prepare the land for the main building work, which started earlier this month and will last for two years.
A ground-breaking ceremony was conducted by some of the current S1-S3 pupils, who will be among the first young people to move into the school when it opens.
S3 pupils Grace Christie and Niamh O’Toole said: “It was exciting to see what we’re moving into.
“We liked how clean it looked and are looking forward to having sports pitches right there.”
Their classmates, Surbjeet Singh and Adam Walker, added: “It looks like it’ll be very interesting to explore. We are excited about the football pitches as well.”
They were joined by Paisley Grammar School headteacher, Janice Levens.
She said: “For us as a school this will open up so many opportunities.
“When you come on site and you see the space you start to get excited.
“We love the building we are in, and it has a lot of history attached, but it isn’t modern enough, so we can’t wait to get into this new one.
“We’re looking forward to the sense of space we will have here, both inside and outside the building.”
Once complete the new school will also have facilities for the wider community, such as meeting rooms and flexible learning spaces.
And the design seeks to meet high standards for energy efficiency and building performance.
The location of the building also allows a close partnership with the neighbouring West College Scotland campus, with potential to expand the range of subjects on offer to pupils.
The new school will be able to hold up to 1,380 pupils, well above the current school roll of just over 1,000.
Janie O’Neill, Renfrewshire Council’s director of children’s services, said: “It was a pleasure to meet some of the young people who might be among the first to benefit from this new school, and it’s exciting to think about what it will offer once complete in two years time.
“The old Paisley Grammar building has served generations of pupils well for more
than 100 years, but the needs of learners and teachers have changed and the new school will be purpose built to meet them.
“Not only will it be an energy-efficient building with state-of-the-art facilities for sports and practical subjects and 21stcentury learning and teaching, but it will be an asset for the whole Paisley community, who will be able to use those facilities out of school hours.”
The £85.5m project is being delivered by Renfrewshire Council, supported by funding from the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Improvement Programme.
It is being built within the site of a wider development which looks to transform transport links in the north of Paisley and help create safer access to the school.
David Ewing, managing director for Morrison Construction Building central region, said: “As a leading contractor in the education sector, we are delighted to work again with Renfrewshire Council and Scottish Futures Trust on the delivery of the new Paisley Grammar School Community Campus.
“It’s great to see work commence in earnest and we look forward to delivering this high-quality facility that will make a positive contribution to the local community.”
The council will look to find a new owner for the current Paisley Grammar School site when it becomes vacant in 2026.
Bridget Phillipson has been appointed as the new Secretary of State for Education.
Phillipson has been new Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer’s shadow education secretary since November 2012 following her promotion from shadow chief secretary to the Treasury.
She was first elected as MP for Houghton and Sunderland South in 2010 and has served as an opposition whip under Ed Miliband and sat on several parliamentary committees, including the high-profile Public Accounts Committee.
Born in Gateshead in 1983, before running for Parliament she managed a refuge for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
She is one of 11 women in Sir Keir’s 26-strong Cabinet.
And, within hours of her appointment, she pledged to begin work on the Labour Party’s manifesto pledge to recruit 6.500 new teachers.
As one of her first steps in post, the Education Secretary will write to all
Sir Kevan Collins has been appointed as a non-executive board member at the Department for Education (DfE) to provide scrutiny and advice on the new Government’s delivery of high and rising standards in schools.
high and rising standards — focusing on finding solutions to the biggest barriers to opportunity for children, including teacher shortages and high absence rates.
education stakeholders as well as making it a priority to meet with teaching unions in the coming days.
And The Department for Education will immediately resume, and expand, its flagship teacher recruitment campaign, Every Lesson Shapes a Life, and its further education recruitment campaign, Share Your Skills.
Phillipson said: “From day one, we are delivering the change this country demands and putting education back at the forefront of national life.
“We will work urgently to recruit thousands of brilliant new teachers and reset the relationship between government and the education workforce.
“For too long the teaching profession has been talked down, side-lined, and denigrated. I have made it my first priority to write today to the people at the centre of making change happen: our workforces.
“I want all children to have the best life chances which means recruiting and keeping great teachers in our classrooms — today is the first step in that mission.”
Sir Kevan brings a wealth of expert experience to the role, having previously served in government, most recently as education recovery commissioner at the DfE.
As chief executive of the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) he examined and analysed evidence on education effectiveness.
He also has experience as a classroom teacher and as director of children’s services in Tower Hamlets.
Non-executive board members (NEBMs) are senior figures from outside government, appointed by the Secretary of State, to provide support and challenge to government departments.
The DfE’s cohort of NEBMs is made up of individuals from business and other backgrounds, who give appropriate advice on many aspects on the running of the department.
Sir Kevan will sit on the DfE board alongside ministers and the department’s wider non-executive board to provide
His appointment comes as the Government has been clear that the education and care system does not currently meet the needs of all children, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) — with earlier interventions in mainstream schools key for those with less-complex needs.
every child has the best start in life.
To ensure that improving inclusion in mainstream schools is at the heart of plans to improve opportunity for those children with SEND, the Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has also confirmed that the Department for Education will restructure so that SEND and Alternative Provision policy will come under the responsibility of the Schools Group.
Phillipson said: “Our push for high and rising standards across our state schools began on day one, with first steps including recruiting 6,500 new teachers.
“I have moved quickly to make sure my department can deliver on our mission to break down the barriers to opportunity so
“Sir Kevan has been an outstanding force for good in schools, especially his work advocating for our teachers and children during the pandemic, and he will play a crucial role in advising the department.”
Sir Kevan added: “I am delighted to be returning to the Department of Education.
“There are real challenges facing our schools and I am looking forward to being part of a renewed drive to ensure that we tackle these with bold and fresh new ideas, to deliver high and rising standards in every corner of the country.”
Sir Kevan’s appointment has been approved by the Commissioner for Public Appointments, in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments. He will remain in the post for three years.
The UK construction sector expresses frustration with the economy
Following the election of the new government, Glenigan and NBS — both part of Byggfakta Group — have released the findings from a poll of construction professionals which reveal ongoing frustration within the market and calls for tax incentives and subsidies to support sustainable projects.
The study found that 39% of construction professionals are feeling pessimistic about the economy, 35% worry about skills shortages (35%), and almost a quarter are concerned about regulatory volumes and the fast pace of rollout (24%).
Around one in five were anxious about building quality (21%), frustrated with planning complexity (23%), and generating enough business (21%).
There is also concern about delivering to existing procurement models and tightening margins (17%), as well as frustration with the lack of regulatory enforcement (13%).
And the recent period of high interest rates is putting construction under pressure.
Four in 10 construction professionals have experienced project start delays (37%), payment delays (37%), and increased borrowing costs (36%).
A third have experienced delays in new projects and financing difficulties, and a quarter have seen more project cancellations.
Around one in five were concerned about access to finance.
Worryingly, a quarter of construction professionals say it is hard to do business in the UK.
However, it is not all doom and gloom as the poll of architects and construction professionals found half of those working in construction (52%) expect more projects to get off the ground post election and predict a greater range of projects and opportunities coming their way.
Interestingly, the most bullish were those working in construction firms with a revenue of £50-£100m, with 61% expecting more work.
And one in three construction professionals say infrastructure, social housing, and planning policy are important to this generation of politicians.
A similar number expect clients to greenlight projects more easily.
The study, which focused on industry sentiment in the lead up to the election, found that optimism was running high for the new government.
Making sustainability a priority was a consistent call from built environment professionals, and a third of construction and architectural specialists called for
While construction has built a reputation for resilience, there’s an expectation that our new Labour Government will be good for the sector, driving growth through unlocking the planning system and prioritising the housing shortage
tax incentives and subsidies to support sustainable projects. A similar number wanted tougher measures on construction waste.
A quarter (27%) also called for a green infrastructure taskforce to support city and transport network decarbonisation.
And one in five architects (17%) wanted to see EPDs become legally binding, higher than construction professionals (11%) and engineers (14%).
The survey of over 500 industry professionals revealed that, despite a sluggish year of project approvals, positivity remains — and that hope is on the horizon.
Russell Haworth, chief executive of Byggfakta Group, which owns Glenigan and NBS, said: “While construction has built a reputation for resilience, there’s an expectation that our new Labour Government will be good for the sector, driving growth through unlocking the planning system and prioritising the housing shortage.
“Construction professionals want the climate crisis to be addressed with both carrots and sticks in the form of tax incentives and regulation to ensure the
Former Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, once described himself as an optimist, but one who carries a raincoat, and this is the attitude the construction sector needs to adopt in the immediate aftermath of the election
UK can cope with climate change. I’m cautiously optimistic about the future.”
But Allan Wilen, economics director at Glenigan, warned: “Former Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, once described himself as an optimist, but one who carries a raincoat, and this is the attitude the construction sector needs to adopt in the immediate aftermath of the election.
“In the short term, there’s unlikely to be a big spending spree as the new Government surveys the lie of the economic land and allocates spending where it’s urgently required.
“My advice is not to expect the
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shopping list of manifesto promises to be delivered overnight; we’ll likely have to wait until the Spending Review in autumn/winter 2024 for more clarity; even then, with multiple departments vying for funding, windfalls seem unlikely, and I would say contractors need to prepare themselves for a period of having to do more for less.
“Where we will hopefully see early progress is on planning, with Labour pledging an immediate updating of the National Policy Planning Framework and the re-instatement of local housing targets to unlock development sites.” n
Anew education investment strategy aimed at ensuring more young people will have opportunities to learn in high-quality school settings now and in the future has been published by Cardiff Council.
The strategy, which covers the nine years to 2033, provides a framework for future decision making and supports Cardiff’s Child Friendly City status which prioritises the rights and needs of children and young people, putting them at the heart of everything the council does.
And it builds on the work already carried out across the city as part of Cardiff’s Sustainable Communities for Learning programme, previously known as the 21st Century Schools Programme.
Over the past 10 years, more than £460m has been invested in completing construction of three new secondary schools, with two more underway; nine new primary schools; hundreds of additional specialist places for children and young people with complex Additional Learning Needs (ALN); and upgrading works to many other schools across the city.
Councillor Sarah Merry, Cardiff Council deputy leader and cabinet member for
education, said: “The education investment which this administration has driven since 2014 has seen real progress made in Cardiff.
“We have always sought to do our best, within available budgets, to improve the environment for teaching and learning in the city, and this work, and this investment, has also played its part helping Cardiff leap up the education ranks in Wales to produce some of the best exam results in the country for A-Levels and GCSEs in recent years.
“Our investment has seen many new schools built and many others upgraded.
“Schools assessed as Category D for condition — buildings at end of life — have been replaced or replacements have been
commissioned and are in the process of being delivered, and once the new builds for Willows High School and the new Cantonian High School are delivered, only one category D school will be remaining, which will be addressed in this strategy.”
However, she said ‘fresh challenges had emerged’, including a requirement for many more ALN spaces, and projected falls in pupil numbers across Cardiff.
“These are significant challenges, especially when set against cuts to local government budgets, and it means we now need to reset,” she added.
“The landscape has changed and if we are to continue the good work achieved to date
The landscape has changed and if we are to continue the good work achieved to date we need to be clear about how we will deal with these challenges
then we need to be clear about how we will deal with these challenges.
“This new education investment strategy will help us chart a path through the next nine years, while keeping a steely focus on improving education settings and education opportunities for all our young people to ensure every child has the best-possible start in life.”
In a report to Cardiff Council’s cabinet committee in May, recommendations were made to approve the renewed vision which aims to deliver an ‘aspirational, equitable and sustainable’ way to invest in the Welsh capital’s schools.
The cabinet approved the following:
• The Education Investment Strategy Caerdydd 2024-2033, which provides a framework for decision making across the education system
• ‘Cardiff’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Rolling Programme 2024-2033’ to allow a business case to be formally submitted to Welsh Government for approval by the Minister
• Note that individual proposals under ‘Cardiff’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Rolling Programme 20242033’ will be subject to appropriate business cases
• Note that the Cathays High School project will no longer by delivered through the Mutual Investment Model, but will instead form a capital project in the rolling programme The report also outlines several challenges the council will have to overcome to deliver the ambitious strategy, including:
• Demographic changes — including falling birth rate numbers in the city, which could see primary schools lose around 20% of their pupils by 2029. As funding is based on pupil numbers this will put an enormous strain on school budgets, and this drop in numbers could also later affect secondary schools
• ALN demand — this has outstripped supply of places over many years
• National and local commitments and targets for expanding Welsh-medium school provision
• The education estate — although Category D schools will have been replaced, there are still many schools in poor condition
• Recruitment and retention challenges — including all levels of staffing
• An increasing number of schools facing budget challenges
• Inequality of provision — including access to Welsh-medium education and post-16 education
• The wellbeing and mental health of
The report is clear that a range of options must be considered to ensure investment achieves the greatest benefits
young people — which has deteriorated since the pandemic
• Insufficient community use of school facilities across the education estate — with a clear need to place schools and school facilities at the centre of local communities
Cllr Merry said: “The report is clear that a range of options must now be considered to ensure any investment is prioritised to achieve the greatest benefits for learners and communities, ensuring there are appropriate, high-quality school places for young people delivered at the right time and in the right place to best serve our local communities.
“Future plans must address a range of challenges such as the demographic changes to birth rates that vary between pupil cohorts which could see primary schools lose 20% of their students over the next five years.
“The significant demand for Additional Learning Need provision has also increased and despite the great work carried out over the past 10 years, we can’t ignore the very real issues around parts of the education estate that is still in poor condition.
“Some form of consolidation will likely have to take place as we look to safeguard and improve.”
The Education Investment Strategy Caerdydd 2024 — 2033 has been developed with input from a range of stakeholders, with children and young people involved in shaping the direction from the outset.
And it is the framework for decision making across the education system that underpins the Council’s new Sustainable Communities for Learning Rolling Programme, a large-scale capital investment
programme jointly funded by the Welsh Government.
This will enable the council to build upon recent achievements and infrastructure improvements across Cardiff’s schools and inform the changing demands for the future.
The rolling programme will also set out the criteria by which individual proposals for investment will be measured and set against appropriate business cases.
Consideration will be given to affordability and appropriate use of funds in the immediate term that will deliver a more-sustainable pattern of provision for the future.
This will ensure that any investment will need to meet the principles outlined in Cardiff’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme to guarantee the best use of the council’s financial resources while balancing the competing needs across the city brought by the challenges Cardiff now faces.
Consideration for future investment would be given to the following:
• Align with national and local priorities specific to improving education outcomes
• Improve the condition of the estate
• Reduce inequality across the city
• Deliver an appropriate balance of specialist ALN provision
• Targeted investment through asset renewal or new build to improve the condition of the estate
• Ensure sustainable levels of surplus in the estate
• Strong option appraisal process to underpin robust decision making
• Maximise scope to ‘invest to save’ to reduce reliance on borrowing n
increased funding for schools aims to address resource disparities and ensure that all schools can provide high-quality education. This funding boost will allow schools to improve facilities, invest in new technology, and provide additional learning resources.
2. Enhanced teacher training and recruitment: The Labour Government plans to invest in teacher training and recruitment, ensuring that schools are staffed with highly-qualified and motivated educators. This initiative includes better pay, professional development opportunities, and support for teachers.
3. Greater support for students with special educational needs: A key aspect of Labour’s manifesto was the provision of greater support for students with special educational needs (SEN). This includes more funding for SEN resources, specialised training for teachers, and improved access to individualised learning plans.
4. Improved access to vocational and adult education: Labour’s focus on vocational and adult education aims to create more pathways to success for students. This includes expanding vocational training programs and increasing access to adult education courses.
5. A focus on lifelong learning: The Labour Party emphasises the importance of lifelong learning, encouraging continuous education beyond traditional schooling years. This includes supporting adult learners who wish to return to education and enhancing community learning programmes.
The new Government’s early years funding policies should be weighted more heavily towards low-income families and children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the Education Policy Institute (EPI) has warned.
Tammy Campbell, the EPI’s director for early years, inequalities, and wellbeing, spoke out after official statistics were released earlier this month by the Department for Education (DfE) on education provision for children under the age of five in England.
The figures showed that the number of disadvantaged two year olds eligible and registered for the 15-hour entitlement continued to decrease, despite the take-up rate increasing.
And among three and four year olds, those registered for both 15- and 30-hour entitlements also fell.
The reductions were put down to falling birth rates, the transition to Universal Credit from legacy benefits, and income thresholds for the eligibility criteria remaining unchanged while average incomes have risen in recent years.
Commenting on the statistics, Campbell said: “Today’s statistics show a fall in the number of disadvantaged two year olds accessing funded early education and care.
“In part, this is because of declining birthrates — but not entirely. It also highlights the fact that fewer and fewer low-income
families are deemed eligible for funding at age two.
“This is due firstly to a freezing of the income threshold initially set in 2014. It is also underpinned by changes to the welfare benefits system, which result in fewer disadvantaged families accessing entitlements that qualify them for funding at two.
“This lessened access for two year olds from low-income families is worrying, particularly in the context of current policy, which focuses on expanding funding for families higher up the income distribution.
“It is children from low-income families who are more likely to benefit developmentally from high-quality early education and care.
“EPI therefore recommends that early years funding should be weighted much more heavily towards low-income families — as well as children with SEND, who are vastly underserved by the current system and the expansions.”
On the DfE’s revelation that the proportion of early years staff without a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification or accredited graduate status had risen from 16% in 2018 to 22% in 2024, she added: “Given that staff are key to quality provision in the early years, this seems to be a move in the wrong direction.
“EPI recommends that the new government should provide and implement a clear strategy for ensuring a high-quality early years workforce.”
FFollowing the outcome of the General Election, we speak to Oliver Weir of Nexus Pine about the likely impact on the property sector
ollowing the General Election outcome, education property investors and operators will be watching closely to gauge the impact of the promised expansion in nursery school places.
In its manifesto, Labour pledged to create 100,000 additional childcare places and more than 3,000 new nurseries as part of a wide-reaching childcare plan.
And it said it would turn classrooms in existing primary schools into ‘school-based nurseries’ for an estimated cost of around £40,000 per classroom.
The money to pay for this was earmarked to come from a highly-controversial VAT levy on private schools.
While the source of funding may be up for further debate, the need for new nursery schools is not going away as Labour also committed to sticking to the former Government’s plans for an expansion of early years funded childcare, with working parents able to receive additional free childcare hours from April of this year.
The Department for Education (DfE) has previously said about 85,000 extra
childminder and nursery places are needed in England for this expansion to work.
Nexus Pine acquires and manages a portfolio of educational properties across the country. In recent years, the educational sector has seen increased interest in the nursery sector, which is expected to continue in light of the proposed early years funding extension.
Speaking to Education Property, Oliver Weir, investment associate at Nexus Pine, explains: “The COVID pandemic accelerated a number of trends in the property investment market.
“With the ongoing pressures in the retail and office sectors, there has been a rise in the demand for alternatives, and education has emerged as an attractive proposition given the income profile and fragmented nature of the market with the potential for consolidation.
“Education is viewed as being defensive in nature, in that it is supplying a required service. At its core, the sector offers investors an attractive blend of long-term,
inflation-linked income, strong covenant strength, and relative stability.
“The education sector remains highly fragmented in terms of operators, with only a small number of large groups. In the nursery sector, Busy Bees and Bright Horizons have the greatest share of the national market, with Kids Planet making its mark in the North of England.”
But these operators cannot buy every building which comes up for grabs, so there has recently been a number of new operators, investors, and lenders entering the market, attracted by the strong cash flows that can be generated and the operational resilience.
Weir said: “As investors, we are working with a number of newer operators looking to expand their operations in the sector.
“When we are considering which operators to work with, we look to gain an understanding of their financial picture and how they are funded.
“Carrying out due diligence on potential sites for nursery businesses is key for investors.”
And, according to Weir, there are several ‘selling points’.
He explains: “Location is fundamental when assessing a potential acquisition.
“We will look at a number of factors,
including the local demographic, nearby demand, and the value of residential properties around the site. We will also look at what competition there is in that locale.”
The condition of buildings also plays a major part in decision making.
Weir said: “We consider all types of buildings, but remain wary of potential issues including asbestos, high alumina cement, or the highly-topical reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in the older stock.
“But what we have seen as an emerging trend is nurseries situated in new-build residential developments where developers are required to deliver commercial space as part of the scheme.
“That works particularly well for nurseries as they are handed the property in shell condition ready for their bespoke fit out, allowing them to complete the works and begin trading in a relatively short timeframe.
“We have a couple of nurseries in newbuild residential schemes and they are great settings. Often the core market for these nurseries comes from the buyers of the flats, who might be people with young families or those looking to start a family.”
The sustainability agenda is another consideration for property investment.
Weir said: “Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards require buildings to have an EPC rating of ‘E’ or better in order to be let. If this minimum rating is not met, works must be undertaken to bring the building up to standard and this is becoming an increasingly important consideration for investors.
“The previous Government proposed, and then scrapped, plans to raise this threshold to a ‘C’. It is likely the new Government will explore reviving these
Other deciding factors when choosing properties to invest in are parking provision and outdoor space.
Weir said: “In London parking can be less of an issue as parents may drop off and commute on public transport. But, outside of London and other major cities, parents want parking for drop-off and pick-up.
“And, when looking at outdoor space, size is important as you want a space commensurate with the number of children.
“We have seen nursery operators spend a lot of money and effort in making their outdoor spaces as attractive as possible and, speaking to operators, they are very proud of these spaces and look to fully utilise them.”
The long leases afforded on educational properties is driving increased interest in the market.
Typically, these are let for 25 years, but investors will be looking for the longest lease periods. They will then make sure the rent is affordable for the area and the operator.
“There are a number of operators with ambitious expansion plans and robust
“Often when a suitable building comes available to lease, there is strong competition between operators wishing to secure it, which is a good signal for investors as to the future demand for their building.
“However, and as in all cases of a supply/ demand imbalance, this can put upward pressure on rents. Both investors and operators must be wary of the property being overrented.
“This can be exacerbated if the property is elected for VAT. As nurseries are VAT exempt, the operators cannot claim this additional 20% back. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the rent is sense checked to ensure it is affordable.
“If we are acquiring a setting with an established trading history, we generally look for EBITDAR cover of 1.8-2x as a measure of this.
“But, as investors, if we do our due diligence effectively we can ensure the properties work for the operator and for us.
“Operators undertake thorough due diligence themselves before making a decision on a building, and then spend significant money fitting out, so we take a lot of confidence from that.
“And, if the operator doesn’t stick around, we are confident that another will step in.” n
…in all cases of a supply/demand imbalance, this can put upward pressure on rents. Both investors and operators must be wary of the property being overrented.
Property developers have faced continued uncertainty, stemming from rising costs, high interest rates, and a challenging economic environment.
However, despite tough conditions, nearly every developer has managed to change tack and diversify their strategy.
Half (49%) of developers are turning towards using different materials to reduce costs, and the same number are exploring new areas and regions to build in. 48% are also planning to build new property types in order to diversify their developments, and 38% are planning to invest in new technology, according to newly-released research from Shawbrook’s development finance team.
When asked why they are changing their strategies, nearly a third (31%) of developers are doing so to meet current demand in the market; 29% are making changes to expand their business; and the same number are altering their strategies to improve profit margins.
Thinking about key challenges over the next 12 months, developers cited rising costs as their biggest concern (26%); followed closely by rising mortgage rates (25%); and rising material costs.
Why are developers changing their strategies?
31% To meet demand within the market
29% To expand the business
29% To improve profit margins
28% To become more sustainable
28% To improve EPC ratings
28% To make the most of government incentives
28% To reduce overheads
27% To diversify portfolios
26% To improve efficiency
24% To meet government regulations
Key concerns/challenges over the past 12 months
26% Rising costs of labour
25% Rising mortgage rates
25% Difficulty accessing funding/investment
25% Falling house prices
25% Rising cost of materials
25% New regulations
24% Cost of living impact on buyers
23% Obtaining planning permission
23% ESG/sustainability commitments
22% Lack of government support for UK housebuilding
22% Difficulty accessing labour/talent
18% Lack of government support for first time buyers
Terry Woodley, managing director of development finance at Shawbrook, said of the findings: “Developers have faced an array of challenges and continued market turbulence over the past year.
“However, our research shows that developers have remained agile and resilient and have implemented changes to navigate their businesses through recent uncertainty.
“The fact that a strong proportion of developers are planning to expand their businesses should provide cause for optimism, and the adaptability already displayed will be key to diversifying income streams and ensuring strategies are robust for the year ahead.
“Given that developers listed access to funding as a concern, now could be an opportune time to partner with a specialist lender who can offer expertise, support and flexibility throughout a development process.”
The fact that a strong proportion of developers are planning to expand their businesses should provide cause for optimism, and the adaptability already displayed will be key to diversifying income streams and ensuring strategies are robust for the year ahead
TJenny Nicol, associate director at Savills, explores how tenure structures have evolved in recent years in the children’s day nursery market
here has been a notable transformation in the ownership and structure of children’s day nurseries.
The industry is shifting from small, single-site, independent operators to institutionalised organisations that are increasingly attracting investment.
And, while the market remains fragmented, groups continue to grow organically and through consolidation by embracing leasehold tenure structures.
Ten years ago, leasehold day nurseries were rare, reserved for the few, often reflecting ‘pack away’ pre-schools operating within a church hall, or just for the verylarge ‘super group’ operators.
But the market has evolved, so much so that it is no longer polarised reflecting extremes, but for the masses at all levels of the market.
A modern lease for a day nursery is typically 20-30 years, with five-yearly capped and collared index-linked reviews, and with security of tenure.
These leases provide landlords with longerterm income, regular predictable reviews, and a highly-regulated tenant, receiving Government-backed income and operating within an industry where there is strong demand and the opportunity to secure a client with a long lifecycle of up to five years.
For operators, leaseholds enable nurseries to grow at speed. Groups can meet immediate demand quickly and more easily ‘plug gaps’ within their estates without having the burden and liability of a freehold property.
And changes in the planning system
For operators, leaseholds enable nurseries to grow at speed. Groups can meet immediate demand quickly and more easily ‘plug gaps’ within their estates without having the burden and liability of a freehold property
have permitted entrance into established commercial leasehold markets, such as retail and offices.
The opportunity to occupy this alternative property supply has meant no choice but to embrace leasehold terms.
This has also benefitted landlords, as while leases for buildings formerly classified just for A1 or B1 use in planning terms have shortened and are structured to include incentives such as tenant breaks, and rent reviews in line with the market, day nurseries negotiate their position.
This usually provides landlords with a more-secure, less-volatile, longer-term income stream.
Securing property in affluent locations, such as London and the South East, on a freehold basis often means high property values and competing with developers who structure bids based on the end use.
Acquiring or taking a leasehold interest instead can leave a bigger budget for other business drivers such as the fit-out, interiors, equipment, and branding.
Having strong branding allows for repeat business models and the opportunity for clients to identify with recognisable values, supporting marketing as competition increases.
Increased budget also allows for investment in staff through developing training academies, head office facilities, and central management teams, and social benefits such as mental health initiatives and community projects.
The lack of financial products and investment for those without a balanced portfolio can result in unfavourable terms being offered, or puts a stop to growth aspirations
We have seen such a growth in leaseholds that they are now often the preferred holding structure for many group operators to enable growth.
And demand is such that multipliers achieved for operating leasehold businesses are closing the gap on those realised for freehold operating concerns.
However, despite this winning formula, there remain challenges.
Funding is not as readily available to leasehold businesses within the nursery sector as it is for alternative markets like pharmacies and dental practices.
The lack of financial products and investment for those without a balanced portfolio can result in unfavourable terms
being offered, or puts a stop to growth aspirations.
However, this has paved the way for private equity interest and alternative options such as working closely with an investor which would purchase the real estate and hold the investment.
Leaseholds are also a depreciating asset where there remains the possibility for landlords to take back the property for their own occupation or redevelopment at the end of the term.
The Government’s expansion of increased funding for early years continues to fuel demand for nursery places.
And, while this remains, there will continue to be demand for new nursery settings — and often the quickest way to facilitate growth is through leases. n
A new Christie & Co report reveals an increased appetite for quality properties for independent SEND school provision
Huge demand continues for property sites for independent SEND school provision, according to a new report from Christie & Co.
The Childcare & Education: Market Insight Report 2024 begins with an analysis of leasehold versus freehold childcare and education business sales.
And it shows that the proportion of leasehold sales increased in the first six months of 2024, with the split in H1 2024 sitting at 78% leasehold and 22% freehold, up from 67% and 33% respectively in 2023.
There are a number of factors which contributed to this, including an increase in the number of sellers choosing to retain their properties and enjoy a rental income stream.
With the cost of capital having increased, some buyers also prefer to take on a new lease rather than acquiring the underlying freehold interest in the property which, in some locations, would command a substantial expense.
The report states: “During 2024, in the lead-up to the General Election and off the back of the Labour Party’s pledge to end the tax break and charge VAT on school fees,
while there has been activity via mergers and schools transferring in ownership, buyers have been incredibly selective in making acquisitions and the degree of market activity in the UK has been largely subdued.
“To a degree, this has mainly been due to some buyers’ nervousness and uncertainty around the potential change in UK Government and what the direct impact of that will be on independent schools.
“While some may weather the storm, others will be less fortunate. But, with the forward-looking outcomes difficult to ascertain at this stage, buyers have been cautious.”
In recent years, the makeup of the independent school sector has changed.
There are around 2,420 independent schools in the UK, educating 7% (circa 625,000) of all children in the UK, and the number of independent special schools has steadily increased, now making up 58% of the sector compared with 45% in 2019.
With the new Government now in place, the market is wary as to how the potential implementation of VAT could change the current landscape.
The report states: “With rising costs and an ever-growing competitive market, buyer appetite is fairly subdued for
operational schools that have seen pupil numbers decline steadily over recent years, often resulting in the merging of year groups, evidencing to buyers that there is a sign of distress and risk to longer-term sustainability.
“The market is, however, much more positive for better-performing independent schools with large capacities.”
The Independent Schools Council’s (ISC) annual school census results show an annual average fee increase of 8% in 2024, in line with inflation, with the majority of day schools charging between £3,000£6,000 per term.
And over a third of all ISC pupils receive some type of fee assistance.
The average means-tested bursary was worth £12,909 per annum, an increase of 9.3% compared with last year, showing a continuing trend in schools to support more-disadvantaged families in accessing high-quality education.
While schools are inspected by both the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) and Ofsted, Ofsted alone judged 75% of non-associated schools as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ as of 31 August 2023.
This is the same as 2022, which follows a period of consistent improvement since 2017, when they judged 68% as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’.
But, since 31 August 2022, 65 schools that Ofsted had previously inspected have closed or left the remit.
In market terms, schools with a track record of positive regulatory outcomes, and those that evidence having ‘significant strengths’, as determined by the regulator, are frequently more appealing to parents and buyers alike in comparison with schools with less-favourable inspection outcomes.
“Desirability will impact both parents’ choices and the price that buyers will be willing to pay,” the report states.
In the first six months of 2024, Christie & Co saw incredibly-high demand from buyers for properties that would lend themselves to SEND school provision, with sales primarily comprising vacant former preparatory school sites.
Albeit buyers have been keen to look at a wide range of properties available to be bought with vacant possession, from former hotels and care homes, through to former community assets such as libraries.
Buyers comprise existing operators looking for growth and new entrants to the market, keen to set up and supply services in an attempt to aid in the acute surge in demand for suitable SEND placements and services.
“The SEND schools sector continues to grow due to the increasing demand for suitable settings that support the needs of children who are unable to access mainstream education and/or suitable residential provision,” says the report.
“Local authorities in England continue to sign up for Safety Valve agreements, which would see them receive extra funding from the Government as they agree to ‘manage’ their high-needs SEND funding requirements in ways that the DfE requires.
“This can include reducing the number of ‘inappropriate referrals’ and EHCPs awarded, along with targets to transfer children with EHCPs into mainstream schools.
“Some councils are facing legal challenges over these agreements, with three potential judicial reviews being commissioned.”
Despite this, the rising demand for SEND services, which has fuelled heightened
envisage a degree of market uncertainty as to how purchasers and vendors react to the new policies that are expected of our new Labour government
demand from providers for suitable properties to convert into SEND spaces, shows no sign of abating.
The report adds: “Across the market, there are concerns that the Safety Valve agreements are putting the education and wellbeing of children and young people with SEND at risk.
“SEND advocates hope that the new Government will prioritise needs by ending the programme and injecting sufficient capital so that every child and young person has the opportunity to access the education they need.”
A recent Christie Finance sentiment survey revealed that 86% of funders/banks surveyed have a positive outlook for the year ahead.
Christie Finance says that, while many lenders view the childcare sector as a worthwhile funding opportunity, their willingness to support operators is largely dependent on factors such as occupancy levels, sustained profitability over an extended period, and a secure regulatory framework.
Christie Finance has also witnessed a 50% increase in funding queries in the last 12 months.
These related to first-time buyers looking
to acquire a setting, experienced operators looking to buy additional nurseries to expand their groups, as well as businesses purchasing assets, completing refits, and fulfilling their cashflow needs.
“Many groups in the sector have been looking to expand rapidly across all parts of the UK, resulting in operators dipping into cash reserves or looking for alternative funding options,” said the report.
Commenting on the SEND education market, Richard Green, director and lead valuer at Christie & Co, said: “We expect the positive market trends that we saw in the first half of 2024 to continue in the second half of the year, with good levels of buyer demand as the vital need for children’s services across the UK remains.”
Commenting on the independent schools sector, he adds: “The marketplace in the first half of the year was largely subdued due to the impending election and the impact that a new government might have on the VAT status of independent schools.
“Moving into the second half of the year, we envisage a degree of market uncertainty as to how purchasers and vendors react to the new policies that are expected of our new Labour government.
“This could impact the market for the next few years, though it remains to be seen.” n
Christie & Co has announced the sale of The Lighthouse Day Care Nursery in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire.
The Lighthouse Day Care Nursery is an Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ setting with an excellent reputation for providing high-quality childcare to up to 49 children.
It occupies a prime location in the affluent royal spa town of Leamington Spa.
The setting has been owned by Judy Hall for over 20 years and, following a confidential sales process with Jassi Sunner at Christie & Co, it has been purchased by Bright Stars. This is the group’s second setting in the town and its 112th in the UK.
creating it and then watching it grow into the flourishing setting it has become today.
Hall said: “It was a very-difficult decision to sell my nursery
“It has been an amazing privilege to watch so many incredible children develop over the last 21 years and to get to
and parents who made it all possible.
“There have been many happy times and funny moments and it was not easy to decide to step down. However, the time was right to make the transition and
I was very pleased to be able to sell the nursery to the Bright Stars nursery group because it is committed to maintaining the individuality of the setting and looking after the staff — both of which were my main considerations.”
Kirsty Ibbott, M&A director at Bright Stars, adds: “This acquisition not only strengthens our presence in the Midlands area, but also allows us to offer unparalleled early childhood education opportunities to even more families.
“The Lighthouse Day Care Nursery will continue to operate under its current name and management, ensuring a seamless transition for children, parents, and staff.”
The nursery was sold for an undisclosed price.
Global property consultancy, Knight Frank, has been appointed by The Froebel Trust to bring to market a rare freehold education redevelopment or refurbishment opportunity in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, for a price in excess of £2.5m.
The property at 32 St Ann’s Villas, W11, is a substantial Grade II-listed building of Tudor architectural style, previously used as an independent school from nursery through secondary level.
The mid-19th-century building accommodates classrooms, kitchen facilities, outside play areas, and a detached music block to the rear.
With approximately 3,621sq ft of interior space along with outdoor areas, the site spans 0.074 acres and offers potential for educational re-use or residential conversion, subject
to obtaining necessary planning consents.
“Educational assets of this scale with outdoor play space are exceptionally difficult to source in the Holland Park market,” said Jasper Upton, associate in Knight Frank’s education and charities team.
“This represents a rare opportunity for investors,
developers, or institutional buyers seeking an education or residential development opportunity in one of London’s most-sought-after boroughs.”
The surrounding Holland Park area offers an affluent residential setting with garden squares and leafy green spaces. The property also benefits from ease of access to leisure amenities and
has excellent transport links.
Dr Sacha Powel, chief executive of Froebel Trust, said: “We are delighted to have appointed Knight Frank to bring our remarkable Grade II-listed asset at 32 St Ann’s Villas to market.
“While it is with mixed emotions that we offer this cherished site for sale, as our requirements have evolved we recognise now is the opportune time for fresh eyes.
“Our hope is that the successful buyer will honour the rich educational legacy here and continue its use as an institution of learning.
“However, as the site offers vast potential for alternative uses, we remain open-minded.”
Global Banking School (GBS), part of Global Education (GEDU), has moved into its new Leeds campus at MEPC’s urban quarter, Wellington Place.
The higher education provider has completed its move from its previous, smaller base at St George House Campus to 1 Wellington Place, where it has taken the entire four-storey building comprising 26,000sq ft of space.
GBS delivers vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes across a range of industries including finance, accounting, business, construction, tourism, and healthcare and has 10 campuses across London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, with its Leeds location opening in 2022.
It now has a total of over 30,000 students across the UK, with further campuses in Dubai and Malta.
GBS says it is relocating to improve its student experience, including through higher-quality learning spaces, better transport
links, proximity to food and drink outlets, and inspiring outdoor spaces.
Previously office space, 1 Wellington Place received approval for change of use as a training facility in November 2023.
The new space includes classrooms with upgraded technology features including floor box charging, IT suites and student support services, and
James Kennedy, deputy chief executive of GBS, said: “Studying in a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, located alongside leading businesses within professional services, finance, and more, gives our students unparalleled collaborative opportunities to launch their careers to new heights.
“We are committed to providing the highest quality of education to all our students,
Knight Frank has announced the sale of the former Belmont School at Holmbury St Mary, near Dorking, Surrey.
The property was put on the market in March on behalf of Glen Carter and Phillip Sykes of RSM UK Restructuring Advisory LLP, who were appointed joint administrators of Belmont School (Feldemore) Educational Trust Ltd.
For the last 70 years, the school has operated as a co-educational day and boarding school with a nursery, prep, and senior school. And it will continue its legacy as an education provider as Cavendish Education has purchased the asset after it was marketed for a guide price of £7m.
The buyer plans to open a new school on the site, marking its first establishment in Surrey.
to study, so ensuring they all have access to the best-possible learning locations right across the UK is critical.
“This is a prime location, with links to public transport, car parking, bike storage, and is located just off major roads including the A1, M1 and M62, making it easier than ever for our Leeds students to commute each day.”
Paul Pavia, head of development at Federated Hermes MEPC, the developer and asset manager behind Wellington Place, added: “Wellington Place has firmly established itself as an outstanding business hub in Leeds city centre.
“We’re now excited to expand on this success by being home to such a well-regarded higher education provider.
“GBS is helping to develop the business leaders of the future, many of which could potentially remain at Wellington Place among the leading organisations based here.”
The agent letting for Wellington
This addition will bring Cavendish Education’s portfolio to 16 schools, with existing locations across
Gloucestershire, Cambridgeshire, and the
people, addressing a growing need in the Simon Coles, chief executive of Cavendish
delighted to have acquired this fantastic
“The demand for more schools like ours
a specialist independent provision here, meaning we can do more for even more young people who may have previously struggled in the mainstream system but could thrive with a different approach.”
Family-owned Kingsmead Day Nursery in Winchester, Hampshire, has been sold to national operator, Grandir UK, for an undisclosed sum.
Established in 1989 by Helen Gaskell, the nursery has steadily grown to become a fundamental part of its local community.
Gaskell started the nursery when she had her own children, Emily and Chris, who, now grown up, have worked alongside her to make the nursery the success it is today.
At any one time, the nursery takes up to 57 children and has been recognised for providing quality provision through a platinum #justquality award.
It is conveniently located in the centre of Winchester, next to a large car park, making it the ideal option for local and commuting parents.
Gaskell recently decided to sell to retire from the sector and Emily and Chris plan to focus on other interests and careers outside of the sector.
Following a confidential sales process with Sophie Willcox at Christie & Co, the nursery has been purchased by Grandir UK, taking the group to 83 settings across England.
Lydia Hopper, chief executive of Grandir UK, said: “The nursery has enjoyed an
excellent reputation in Winchester and we are looking forward to continuing to provide an environment where the children, families, and nursery team can learn, grow, and thrive together.”
Willcox added: “Kingsmead is a unique, special nursery.
“Helen and Emily’s passion shone through at our first meeting, and I was not surprised
to be inundated with interest from a variety of buyers so quickly.
“We went under offer within two weeks of marketing the setting and were in receipt of multiple offers during that time.
“The quality of provision, strong team, and a well-maintained asset were attractive for many buyers and I am glad to have found the right party to carry on their legacy.”
Christie & Co has announced the sale of Katey’s Nursery & Pre-School, a prime group of five childcare settings in south west London.
Originally set up in 2010, the group has gone from strength to strength and now provides the highest level of childcare to over 273 children across five settings that are located in Kingston, Ham, Hampton Court, Teddington, and Brentford.
Following a confidential sales process with Nick Brown and Sophie Willcox at Christie & Co, the group has been purchased by Chalk Nursery Group which is backed by Downing LLP.
Katey’s will act as the cornerstone investment of Chalk Nursery Group, with a vision to
provide a high-quality, caring, family-orientated environment, while focusing on delivering the
best outcomes for every child.
Sinead Johnson, chief executive of Chalk Nursery
Group, said: “I am proud to have joined Chalk Nursery Group, and to have made our first acquisition.
“Katey’s Nursery and Preschool embodies our vision of high-quality care and education, delivering the very best outcomes for children.
“The early years sector is well placed to thrive with the continuing cross-party support and recognition of its educational and social benefits for children and I am excited to be working with Downing to provide additional nursery places for more children as we grow the group.”
Katey’s Nursery & Pre-School was sold for an undisclosed price.
Delve director and co-founder, Alex Raher, discusses the untapped potential of transforming empty commercial spaces into early years educational settings
In England we have one of the highest childcare costs in Europe — putting immense pressure on working parents to decide whether it is affordable to return to work or juggle childcare themselves.
In addition to this, most local councils are worried about their ability to cater for future demand.
Earlier this June Labour pledged 3,000 new nurseries for the UK, a welcome target as we desperately need more nurseries to
accommodate an ever-growing demand. But, in order to deliver these new spaces in the most-cost-effective and environmentally-friendly way — we should look to retrofit existing commercial buildings into beautiful, fun nurseries for families, communities, and children.
In an effort to reduce the environmental impact of construction, retrofit is now being
As an architect, designing nurseries is a joy and a privilege, with creative freedom to test, explore, and create educational spaces that might be too unconventional or awkward for other commercial businesses
pursued as the first option above the 20thcentury model of demolish and rebuild.
Although this can be complicated for housing, the dynamic nature of how a nursery operates can lead to myriad different spaces being utilised.
A nursery can have split levels and mezzanines or make clever use of nooks and crannies and dropped ceilings, with giant joinery, climbing areas, and even soft tactile spaces for active play.
The ‘shell building’ needs basic services (M&E, ventilation, cooking space, and toilets) and the interior fit-out doesn’t have to be overly expensive.
A simple, child-led and tactile approach works best — using natural, sustainable materials and a subtle approach to colour and acoustics to create nurturing, not loud, spaces.
While not all nurseries have access to direct external space, it is always possible to consider light, greenery, and natural materials in the design.
As an architect, designing nurseries is a joy and a privilege, with creative freedom to test, explore, and create educational spaces that might be too unconventional or awkward for other commercial businesses.
retrofitting a former doctors’ surgery into a thriving nursery in west London and have since developed our passion for using design to help new nurseries open or expand their businesses.
We also have first-hand experience of finding childcare space with our own families, which gives us empathy and a deeper understanding of the industry.
The driving force at the heart of a nursery is the teachers — the incredible people who are responsible for our children’s early education — and the role they play must not be underestimated.
We must also emphasise early years education is not ‘childcare’; it is the first step of the educational path; a critical few years where important motor and mental skills are catalysed.
Our design approach is to create spaces that nurture, embrace, and capture the bright imaginations of young people.
As a practice, we realised we could offer our skills to look at unlocking the potential of unusual sites across urban, suburban, and rural areas, and often conduct feasibility studies to assess the viability of a site for an acquisition or development.
One of our recent projects was the transformation of a former industrial warehouse, The Learning Tree, in Romford, east London, with a light, spacious, and sustainably-driven fit-out to create a 120-place nursery.
The building is a success, not just with its local community, but also earning a coveted
There is untapped potential to consider a nationwide retrofit strategy to transform under-used and poorly-performing commercial, residential, or retail spaces into nurseries
Ilys Booker Centre was re-purposed this year by Perkins&Will, providing a muchneeded new nursery that was previously in the basement of Grenfell Tower prior to the 2017 fire.
Focusing on light and nature, the designers have managed to create a dynamic space in a tight urban environment, which provides much better connection to the outside space.
It is an example of a simple approach to a nursery setting shaped by focusing outwards, using natural materials, and through extensive consultation with the local community.
Nature frames the outside views and little touches of art and colour connect the inside and outside.
In addition, Studio Egret West took the existing shell of the Park Hill development
in Sheffield, to deliver a clever, compact nursery along a long rectangular footprint, installing playful joinery and exposing the concrete structure as part of the conservation approach.
And Alma-nac converted a grand Victorian house in Herne Hill, south east London, into a bustling new nursery, retaining the ‘residential’ feel of the building, but filling it with fun spaces for young minds to explore.
When we look at empty commercial spaces, why not consider them for early-years educational provision?
Empty retail units could be reprovisioned as they have a simple entrance/ exit arrangement that allows for careful management and safeguarding.
Natural light is a key factor, so points to consider would be the ability for dual-aspect or double-height spaces, with rooflights to bring light down.
There is untapped potential to consider a nationwide retrofit strategy to transform under-used and poorly-performing commercial, residential, or retail spaces into nurseries.
The demand is there; and we need a call to action as an industry to shake things up and move this forward.
If a developer can zero-rate VAT on a building by demolishing rather than retaining the existing fabric — why can we not consider zero-rate VAT for deep retrofit?
Retrofit works for educational spaces and is our best approach to delivering nurseries that communities across the UK need. n
We look at how the completion of a new PBSA building in Belfast is helping to set a precedent for higher education living
Anew purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) unit has opened in Belfast, marking a fresh approach to the design of higher education facilities.
Student Roost has announced completion of Nelson Place, a 12-storey development situated close to Ulster University.
Constructed by GRAHAM and designed by Fletcher Joseph Associates, the building provides 774 en-suite and studio rooms and is also home to Ulster University’s new, state-of-the-art sports centre and wellbeing facilities, including a spin studio, a gym with the latest TechnoGym machines, a dedicated cardio mezzanine, weights section, rooftop running track, and a 600sq m four-court badminton hall, which can also be used for basketball and netball.
Students have free access to the sporting hub throughout their tenancy and the rooftop running track will also be used to host wellbeing events such as sunrise yoga and lunchtime and after-class circuits led by Ulster University’s world-class team of sporting experts.
Communal spaces include a sky lounge with panoramic views across Belfast, a
cinema room, a bookable hosting kitchen for dinner parties, study rooms, and a games room.
Located just across the road from Ulster University, Nelson Place is Student Roost’s fifth property in the capital and positions students studying at any Belfast university in the heart of the city centre.
Anna Killough, regional operations manager for Belfast at Student Roost, said: “We’re so pleased to have completed on Nelson Place, the largest student accommodation building in Belfast, which completes our student quarter in the city.
“Redefining what student living can be, Nelson Place is setting a new standard for the PBSA sector through its high-quality design, sports centre, 24/7 team members, and a focus on resident wellbeing.
“All of the property’s features have been carefully curated to fundamentally support students’ physical and mental wellbeing, setting them up for success personally and academically.”
Gary Holmes, regional managing director for GRAHAM’s Building North region, added: “Working collaboratively with project partners, the team have delivered an
impressive development.
“It will be a fantastic living and social environment for the students with wellness at its centre, but will also play a significant role in bridging the gap between supply and demand in Belfast for student accommodation.”
The design approach was informed by the three themes of awareness, flexibility, and participation.
A spokesman for Fletcher Joseph Associates said: “Nelson Place provides market-leading accommodation with a unique offer of facilities that promote student wellbeing and encourage engagement with a wider ‘active’ campus.
“Adopting the three themes informed our design solution in several ways, primarily in the organisation of the spaces and incorporation of visual connections between key activity areas as smaller activity zones overlap with break-out and social areas to encourage active hang-outs while participating in different activities.
“And the series of accommodation blocks are oriented around a south-facing courtyard. This makes full use of, and expands, the amenity offer for both residents and the wider student community by keying into Ulster University’s new campus adjacent to the site.” n
Education design strategies come under the spotlight in the 2024 RIBA Awards
Three education design schemes have been singled out as among the best architectural projects in the country in the RIBA National Awards 2024. The annual competition highlights buildings across the UK which make significant contributions to architecture.
And the winners for 2024, announced on 11 July, include the new Alfreton Park Community Special School in Derbyshire; the dining hall at Homerton College, Cambridge; and Thames Christian School and Battersea Chapel in south London.
Designed by Curl la Tourelle Head Architecture and built by Henry Brothers; the £13.2m Alfreton Park Community Special School comprises four loosely-
arranged buildings nestled against the brow of the hill.
Two teaching wings have classrooms facing the open countryside and ancillary breakout and specialist rooms on the northern side.
The main communal hall sits on the more-public side of the school, opening out onto a semi-enclosed courtyard, and its overhanging roof provides shelter to children arriving to start their day. Completing the arrangement is a discreet reception and staff building.
The RIBA judges said: “On first arrival at this school on the outskirts of Alfreton in Derbyshire, it is evident that it has been carefully crafted, both internally and
teachers’ needs.
“The architects have responded to the brief with both playfulness and architectural quality while meeting the stringent technical requirements of the county council client and the building’s users.”
The project team also included PFB Construction, Price & Myers LLP, Method Consulting, and Faithful & Gould.
Also making the 2024 winners list was the new dining hall at Homerton College in Cambridge, designed by Feilden Fowles Architects and developed by Barnes Construction.
The judges said of the entry: “What architects Feilden Fowles has captured so well in its new dining hall is a compelling
vision of what the new college could be; speaking to the past, present, and future of this unusual institution.
“While drawing inspiration from the materials and details of the college’s early 20th-century arts and crafts buildings, the dining hall subverts the character of traditional collegiate spaces.
“Open to the landscape, rather than enclosed; light-filled, rather than dark, it is suggestive of the egalitarian, diverse community the college seeks to build, and has become the focal point in the college’s social and cultural life.
“Externally, its highly-distinctive, sculptural form has succeeded in providing the ‘emblematic centrepiece’ the college sought as a symbol of its free-thinking character and bold social ambitions.”
The project team also included Ingleton
Wood Martindales, Structure Workshop, Max Fordham, Peter Dann, Bremner Partnership, SEED, and Hortus Collective.
The third successful entrant was the Henley Halebrown-designed Thames Christian School and Battersea Chapel, a massive, brick cuboid which sits on the edge of South London’s Winstanley Estate.
Located beside large inner-city housing blocks and the Clapham Junction railway tracks, the new building is described as ‘enigmatic’ and ‘both part of the city yet apart from it’.
The judges said: “Responding to the brief of school and chapel, the architects have created a fascinating typology in which each contributes to the overall form yet operates separately, each façade playing its part.”
The school is entered from the south via a modest courtyard, while to the east the
chapel façade breaks out from the building line above onto a small park in a beautiful play of forms.
And deep courtyards enable naturallyventilated dual-aspect classrooms, enhancing the wellbeing of the school’s 400 students, almost half of whom have special educational needs.
The contractor for the project was Midgard, with the project team also included HLM Architects, HTA Design, Pell Frischmann, Desco, Montagu Evans, Farrer Huxley, AF Acoustics, MLM Group, and Martin Arnold.
All three entries will now join other national winners to be considered for the highly-coveted RIBA Stirling Prize for the best building project of the year in recognition of their architectural excellence. n
The latest Glenigan Construction Review reveals education project starts on site have risen in the last quarter after a challenging few months for the sector
The education construction industry continues to face challenges with main contract awards and detailed planning approvals declining against both the previous quarter and last year, but project starts growing on the preceding three months and a year ago.
According to Glenigan’s June Construction Review, totalling £1,36bn, education work starting on site grew 3% on the preceding three months to stand 14% up on the previous year.
No major projects (£100m or more) started during the period, a decrease from the preceding quarter, but unchanged from a year ago.
And underlying education work starting on site (less than £100m in value) increased 35% against the preceding three months on a seasonally-adjusted (SA) basis and was 14% up on a year ago.
Education main contract awards decreased 18% against the preceding three months to total £980m, with the value remaining 40% lower than the previous year; while underlying contract awards decreased 28% (SA) against the preceding three months and by 40% against the previous year.
No major projects reached the contract awarded stage, unchanged on the preceding three months and the previous year.
Totalling £1.2bn, detailed planning approvals fell 7% against the preceding three months and last year.
However, major project approvals totalled £120m, an increase on both the previous quarter and last year when no major projects were approved.
Underlying project approvals fell 13% (SA) against the previous three months to stand 17% down against last year, totalling £1.08bn.
School project starts totalled £1bn during the three months to May and accounted for the largest share of education construction starts (74%), having grown 48% on the previous year.
Universities, on the other hand, fell 32% against last year to total £167m, accounting for 12% of the total value.
Education: Detailed Planning Approvals
Source: Glenigan
Education: Main Contract Awards
Source: Glenigan
Education: Starts
Source: Glenigan
And college project starts also experienced a weak period, with the value having fallen 3% against the previous year to total £135m, accounting for an 10% share of education work starting on site.
London was the most-active region for education project starts during the three months to May, accounting for a 25% share of the sector to total £337m, having increased 131% on last year’s levels.
Growth in the capital was accelerated by the commencement of the £74m Downderry Primary School development in Lewisham.
Yorkshire & the Humber accounted for 16% of starts in the sector and tripled against the previous year to total £219m.
The South East was the most-active region for detailed planning approvals in the education sector, accounting for a 21% share, with the value having grown 69% on a year ago to total £251m.
The report also provides details of the leading clients and contractors in the sector, with the Department for Education topping the client table, with 185 projects worth £896m, followed by Kier with six projects worth £129m.
The top contractors were Royal Bam (15 projects worth £575m) and Kier with 23 projects worth £466m. n
Scan to read now
Inside issue 01, February-March 2024
• Best practice in the design of educational facilities
• Investing in the next generation of schools, colleges, and nurseries
• Meeting the net-zero carbon challenge
• Driving efficiency in the education estate
• Market and industry insight
Inside issue 02, April-May 2024
• Special report on the design of purposebuilt student accommodation
• How modern methods of construction are creating a new generation of educational buildings
• Guidance supports estates professionals to get the most from their sites
Inside issue 03, June-July 2024
• Special report on the latest acoustic treatments to address noise pollution in schools
• Study reveals the impact of lighting on children with special educational needs
• Nurseries launch petition to force government to axe business rates levy
Security is key for educational establishments. In this article Jo Makosinski looks at the challenges and the solutions available to address them
Educational institutions, from primary schools to prestigious universities, are treasured environments for learning and growth.
On the other hand, they are also vulnerable to crime and anti-social behaviour and, as such, security is a key priority for estates managers and those in
Teachers
charge of security.
Pro-active security measures vary from site to site, but primarily fall into three categories — CCTV surveillance, access control, and observation/warning systems.
Chris Clifton of Safeguard Systems explains: “Unauthorised access is an issue for schools — people walking off the street
or delivery drivers turning up and letting themselves in. Also, there are rooms within schools which only certain staff members should have access to, for example where cash or valuable equipment is kept.
“In this case we would typically see the installation of intercom systems and door or gate controls at key entry points or in reception areas.
“To protect sensitive areas, and to manage staff access in and around the school, we would deploy key fob or keypad door entry systems.”
do not go to work to get attacked by children, so while having CCTV cameras in classrooms may feel like a breach of privacy, they are critical as both a deterrent and to gather evidence in the event of an issue
• Key fob and car door entry systems: For receptions, the school gate, and internal access
• Video and audio intercoms: In reception, at the school gate, and internal access points
• ANPR cameras: At the school gate and external entry points
• Keypad access: For restricted areas and car parks
The second area schools must consider is detecting and dealing with external and internal threats.
As mentioned above, CCTV surveillance and observation and warning solutions, such as lookdown systems, cover this area of security.
Clifton said: “There are lots of threats facing schools, in some areas more than others, such as inner city schools.
“If a school thinks an intruder might be carrying a weapon, such as a knife, lockdown systems are an effective solution.
“Lock-down systems are linked to the main access control systems and staff can sound an alarm, and lock all exertional doors for the school. Furthermore, a siren will act as a means to deter the intruder from carrying out any attack.
“There is also a growing issue with children assaulting teachers. Teachers do not go to work to get attacked by children, so while having CCTV cameras in classrooms may feel like a breach of privacy, they are critical as both a deterrent and to gather evidence in the event of an issue.”
In fact, according to a poll by the NASUWT teaching union in 2023, 13% of teachers said they had been physically assaulted by a pupil and 48% said they do not feel that their school’s behaviour policy is effective and fit for purpose.
With this in mind, CCTV cameras are becoming increasingly commonplace in
schools to deter attacks on staff or pupils or other criminal behaviour.
And this has sparked controversy as cameras are placed in areas such as toilets and changing rooms.
Clifton said: “I think there’s a balance between physical privacy that any child should have and has a right to have — if you are spending a penny, you don’t want to think someone is watching you — but also it is important to deter and gather evidence of any bullying or illegal activity, which is a particular problem in these more-private areas.
“I would like to think that any parent who puts their child’s physical and mental safety at the forefront would not have an issue with a discreetly-placed camera covering areas of a toilet where people’s physical privacy is not being compromised.
“The reality is also that in some schools, 13 and 14 year olds, some even younger, are taking hard drugs and educational
When specifying CCTV cameras for education settings, there are a number of different systems to consider. These include:
• CCTV monitoring: CCTV monitoring, also known as monitored CCTV, is a robust, cost-effective form of security. It works by fitting security cameras with sensors. When triggered, an alarm is raised and an offsite security team will receive this alert. They then review the footage and, if they detect a security threat, the right authorities will deal with it. This is the perfect solution for schools which may be targeted by criminals outside of school hours or during holidays
• Internal and external IP CCTV cameras: These offer high-resolution, scalable security solutions that help deal with a range of threats. IP CCTV systems, otherwise known as network
tracking systems can be used as a form of access control as well as detecting known suspicious vehicles. ANPR CCTV camera systems can also be used to spot cars exceeding the speed limit in the car park. Worse still, sex offenders often patrol in and around the school gates and if any of concern are spotted, the car registration can be stored in a database. When spotted, an alert can then be raised for the school’s security team to deal with
• Thermal CCTV: These systems offer advanced intruder and threat detection. Thermal CCTV systems are effective after dark and can form part of a welldesigned perimeter protection system. Thermal CCTV cameras systems can also be deployed internally to track the movements of intruders if they gain access to the building
Offering advice to specifiers, Clifton said: “Schools are not dripping with money and they have finite budgets so they need to pinpoint what the threats are and the likelihood of these taking place balanced against the budget they have got available
“It’s about having a clear idea of threats and objectives, so it is important for a school to choose a security company that has a proven track record in dealing with, and working in, schools so that the system design process
“We recently surveyed a school site and managed to trim 20-30% from the cost of the system as during the survey we noticed they had a lot of security lights mounted on existing poles. As a result, we could fit cameras to them, thus negating the need for the school to invest in further specialist CCTV poles. Furthermore, the cameras were linked via wireless bridges, so we did not have to dig up the carpark to run cabling across the site.”
Clifton goes on to comment on the benefits of dealing with a specialist school
security company.
“Dealing with a specialist school security company, and one that will come out and do a thorough site survey, is vital in ensuring the best-possible security system is fitted and one that is within budget. As experts in school security we understand the challenges faced, and can easily recommend appropriate systems.”
A recent project Safeguard Systems has been involved with in the education sector is the upgrade of CCTV infrastructure at a Wiltshire college.
After an exhaustive site evaluation, Hikvision PanoVu cameras were installed to reduce cabling and camera count; while DeepInView ANPR cameras were recommended to address car park entry issues, and Hikvision DarkFighter bullet cameras were specified to safeguard the sports centre.
Additionally, Safeguard Systems has recently designed and deployed a range of other solutions covering lockdown systems, door access control ,and a whole range of CCTV surveillance installations for comprehensive, public, and private schools. n
Dealing with a specialist school security company, and one that will come out and do a thorough site survey, is vital to ensuring the best-possible security system is fitted and one that is within budget
We look at ways to protect schools and other educational establishments from theft and vandalism over the long summer break
It is not just in term time that schools need security. With the summer holidays beginning, educational facilities across the UK are shutting down for an extended period, leaving them particularly vulnerable to theft and vandalism.
Hywel Davies, construction director and co-owner of Integrated Fencing, explains: “While students and staff enjoy their welldeserved break, schools can become targets for theft and vandalism, with 2023 figures showing that crime costs schools £26,575 per year — more than double the previous year.
“With thousands of pounds worth of equipment inside and no one around for six weeks, it is easy to see why criminals would plan to break in.
“It is essential that all schools implement
premises are empty for long periods of time.
Installing a sturdy, reliable fence is one of the most-effective ways to protect your school.
Schools in high-crime areas are often more vulnerable to break-ins, making it crucial to invest in heavy-duty steel fencing with anti-climb features.
In contrast, schools in safer areas might opt for standard steel fencing, which still provides a strong deterrent.
Steel fencing requires minimal maintenance, primarily consisting of regular cleaning to remove dirt and prevent rust.
Gates, however, must comply with Gate Safety Regulations. Specifiers should look for comprehensive maintenance packages for both automatic and manual gates, ensuring they remain secure and functional.
Schools are often equipped with valuable technology and equipment, making them prime targets for thieves.
Ensure all computers, tablets, and other electronic devices are securely locked away in storage rooms or cabinets with strong locks.
Additionally, keep an inventory of all valuable items and consider marking them with your school’s identification to deter theft and aid recovery if stolen.
Investing in a robust CCTV and alarm system can significantly enhance your school’s security.
Position cameras at all entry points,
security systems to ensure they are operational throughout the summer.
Checking all windows and doors on the premises are secure before the school closes for summer is imperative, as well as installing high-quality locks on all doors and windows, and where necessary, reinforcing them with security bars or grilles.
For added protection, apply shatterproof film to windows, making it difficult for intruders to gain entry by breaking the glass.
And regularly inspect locks and repair any that show signs of wear or damage.
As strange as it sounds, well-maintained school grounds can potentially deter criminal activity.
Overgrown bushes and trees can provide cover for thieves, so ensure that the landscaping is kept tidy and trimmed. Installing adequate lighting around the
While the green agenda remains at the forefront of the education sector’s approach to property development and estates management, a new report reveals the number of schemes with sustainability targets is decreasing in the sector
The NBS’s Sustainable Futures Report 2024, published in conjunction with RIBA and Glenigan, surveyed 568 suppliers, clients, architects, engineers, and consultants to determine the importance of sustainability in the construction sector.
And it revealed that there has been a ‘notable reduction’ in projects which have been granted planning permission or have started on site which have BREEAM sustainability targets.
And the health and education sectors have been particularly hard hit due to the squeeze on public finances in recent years.
David Bain, research manager at NBS, said: “The need to achieve environmental sustainability, in particular addressing climate change, is arguably the mostpressing challenge of our time.
“While there remain some who continue
to doubt the human impact on climate change, the vast majority recognise it, and the evidence plays out for all to see.
“There has been significant effort to address the challenge and progress has been made, but not fast enough.”
On a more-positive note for the education sector, the specification of renewable energy and heat pumps has been more widespread. Almost two-thirds (64%)
of new-build education projects approved this year include renewables and 36% involve heat pumps.
The report found that all types of sustainability are considered important by the majority of respondents, with environmental sustainability most ‘important’ to 90% of people.
And eight out of 10 believe social sustainability and economic sustainability are also ‘important’.
Respondents were also asked how often their projects in the last year had sustainability targets.
Only 16% said ‘all the time’, 33% ‘most of the time’, 27% ‘some of the time’, 13% ‘rarely’, and 12% ‘never’.
The report states: “Once those who don’t know are removed, we find that almost nine out of 10 respondents worked on projects with sustainable outcome targets.
“All of these numbers are higher than in 2021, when seven out of 10 respondents had sustainable outcome targets.
“Clients were most likely to say their projects had sustainable outcome targets, with 97% stating this. Larger organisations are also more likely, with 61% saying that they had sustainable outcome targets most, or all, of the time.”
The picture is more positive with respect to net zero, however.
Almost two thirds (64%) said they worked on a net zero project, compared to just under half in 2021.
But the proportion of projects where this is routine is still in the minority, with only 15% of respondents stating they worked on net zero projects most, or all, of the time.
The researchers also looked at operational efficiencies, asking if projects involved taking sustainability measurements while the asset is in use. Almost three-quarters (72%) said they did, with a quarter saying that their projects included measurements most, or all, of the time, and the larger the organisation, the more likely their projects involve this.
But the report states: “This increase is encouraging, and one might conclude that this is a result of the increased focus on sustainable outcomes, strengthening of legislation, and availability of moresustainable products.
“However, over the longer term the results aren’t so positive — coming almost back into line with 2012 and 2014, when over half said that their projects were usually, or always, sustainable.
“This might not necessarily mean we are less sustainable than we were then.
“One possible explanation is that people now better understand what sustainability looks like, so what might have been thought sustainable 10 years ago might not be now.”
And, when it comes to barriers to sustainability, respondents cited cost as the biggest hurdle, with 63% citing this,
To enable designers and specifiers to make effective decisions in order to achieve these outcomes, sustainability would need to have been part of the strategy and briefing process at the beginning — to create clear objectives, define the brief, and set an appropriate budget
compared to only 51% in 2021.
Material price inflation has been extremely high for many products, and this has only started to come down in the last few months.
“While this has affected products that might not be deemed sustainable, the overall pressure on project budgets and margins may well have led to people making decisions that are as cost effective and simple as possible — rather than researching lesser-known alternatives, which might be more sustainable,” the report states.
The next three barriers are lack of client demand; sustainable products being value engineered out; and ‘lack of government policy/regulation’.
Project clients, investors, and financiers remain most influential on whether sustainability is a focus on projects.
After these, consultants and designers are seen as most influential, but whether their sustainable design options are taken forward will depend on the client.
Contractors, suppliers, and manufacturers are seen as less influential, but do play an important role when suggesting more-sustainable solutions and products.
To ensure the sector stays on track, the report calls for sustainability to be included in project strategies and briefings from the get-go.
It states: “To enable designers and specifiers to make effective decisions in order to achieve these outcomes, sustainability would need to have been part of the strategy and briefing process at the beginning — to create clear objectives, define the brief, and set an appropriate budget.
“Survey responses suggest that there remains a gap at this early stage, with 62% stating that sustainability is considered as part of the strategy and brief; 84% believe it should be considered at this time, more than at any other stage.
“The strategy and brief stage appears to be where there is the largest gap between actual and ideal behaviour.
“However, survey responses also indicate that sustainability isn’t being considered enough during construction and when the asset is in use.
“This pattern of response is similar to 2021, where responses suggested that sustainability was considered most during the design stages and not enough during the other project stages.” n
Oliver Baker, chief executive of Ambion Heating, speaks to Education Property about how low-carbon heating is the key to providing affordable, safe, and sustainable accommodation for students
tudent housing has evolved significantly over the past 50 years, from basic living quarters converted from office blocks and hotels to small-scale villages with amenities tailored specifically for the needs of those attending university.
According to Knight Frank’s Student Property Report, an additional 263,000 fulltime undergraduates are expected to begin higher education between now and 2030.
And, for many, it will be their first experience living away from home and their expectations of what their new homes will be like include being clean, modern, and comfortable.
Unfortunately, the reality experienced by attending students is quite different.
Despite a recent shift towards moremodern and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), some students
Where energy bills are not included in the rent, some students, already struggling to afford accommodation costs, may not turn on their heating, leading to the issues with a lack of heating, as well as problems with dampness and mould being exacerbated
Whether in newbuild or retrofit properties, fulfilling existing and forthcoming accommodation requirements set out by the university, local authorities, and the Government may require capital investment to improve building fabric or add solar PV or new low-carbon heating systems
have found properties fall short of their wish list.
Two of the biggest problems reported in the latest National Student Accommodation Survey were dampness and a lack of heating.
The report found that over 33% of those surveyed have had issues with damp, and 29% experienced a lack of heating or water.
Damp within a property is problematic as it can often lead to mould, which can have negative health effects including respiratory eye and/or skin irritation.
Not only are some properties not providing graduates with safe accommodation, but they’re often unaffordable, as 64% of those paying rent said they struggle with the cost at least some of the time.
In the UK, students’ most-common accommodation types are privately rented, university halls of residence, private sector halls of residence, or living at home.
Students living at home usually don’t have to worry about what their new lodgings might be like, but for the other 1.2 million students living away, finding an affordable and safe property can be problematic.
The National Student Accommodation Survey found that many students have bills included in rent — especially those living in halls, with 56% of students saying they have energy bills included.
This can be a great way for students to avoid the fluctuating costs many households are facing with their energy bills.
Where energy bills are not included in the rent, some students, already struggling to afford accommodation costs, may not turn on their heating, leading to the issues with a lack of heating, as well as problems with dampness and mould being exacerbated.
Unfortunately, given the persistently-high energy prices, there is a significant challenge for property owners who cover energy costs to satisfy the expectations of students and educational institutions and ensure a profitable return on their investments.
And this could become a risk to bills being included in the future, or mean a rise in rental prices to cover costs.
Whether in new-build or retrofit
properties, fulfilling existing and forthcoming accommodation requirements set out by the university, local authorities, and the Government may require capital investment to improve building fabric or add solar PV or new low-carbon heating systems.
This can be difficult in today’s current climate, where prices across the supply chain have increased significantly over the past few years.
However, property owners mustn’t give up on their responsibilities to provide affordable and safe housing for today’s and tomorrow’s students.
Ensuring properties have the necessary energy efficiency measures and affordable heating systems while balancing upfront costs can be hard to achieve for many education providers, student housing developers, and landlords, especially as there is a third element to consider.
Housing providers also need to assess
Ensuring properties have the necessary energy efficiency measures and affordable heating systems while balancing upfront costs can be hard to achieve for many education providers, student housing developers, and landlords
As owners of large estate portfolios, the UK’s higher education institutions are uniquely positioned to take the lead in decarbonisation efforts to meet the country’s net zero targets
their environmental impact, more specifically how their property portfolio will meet net zero targets over the coming years.
As owners of large estate portfolios, the UK’s higher education institutions are uniquely positioned to take the lead in decarbonisation efforts to meet the country’s net zero targets.
Consequently, they are facing increasing pressure from funders, staff, and prospective students to be more sustainable.
Heating, once again, is at the centre of the challenge.
When it comes to old housing stock, the question posed is how to replace oftendecades-old systems with affordable lowcarbon technology.
For PBSAs, it’s how to best manage costs and the need to implement low-carbon heating that is futureproofed against the ever-changing energy landscape.
Conventional electric heating systems don’t address the high cost of energy given their energy performance, while convection systems — including heat pumps — are not as effective in combating the problem of mould and damp.
Heat pumps can also be problematic because of their high upfront costs, and their size means they can be difficult to accommodate in the smaller units inherent in student accommodation.
Meeting all expectations can be
arduous and sometimes unrealistic, but housing providers must find a way to supply students with affordable, safe and sustainable housing.
So, what is the solution to this trilemma?
With the Government’s net zero plans focusing on electrification for heat, many property owners are turning to heat pumps. However, this technology is often unsuitable for smaller houses and multioccupancy buildings.
With a high upfront cost and a lengthy, complicated, and often-disruptive installation process, these systems require space that is often not available in halls of residence.
Requiring pipework, radiators, and external condenser units, heat pumps can also be costly to service and maintain, adding financial pressure to already-tight budgets.
In addition, convection systems, including heat pumps, don’t help combat the mould and damp that some student properties are prone to.
In fact, the warm air they produce, when coming into contact with cold walls, encourages condensation and mould, potentially harming residents’ wellbeing.
With traditional systems failing to ensure adequate and efficient heating, and options
With traditional systems failing to ensure adequate and efficient heating, and options like heat pumps considered unsuitable or impractical for many accommodation types, many housing providers are turning to infrared heat panels as a solution
like heat pumps considered unsuitable or impractical for many accommodation types, many housing providers are turning to infrared heat panels as a solution.
Infrared heat works like the sun, giving the same feeling of direct warmth, but without any of the harmful rays.
It works by the fabric of the building and the materials within a room absorbing and storing the infrared waves, rather than the system heating the air and space — a muchmore-efficient approach to heat.
Infrared can turn the property into a heat store, with significant benefits when used with the correct control system.
For example, Ambion Heating provides the only control system specifically designed for infrared, and importantly it is not based on a thermostat.
The unique control system uses constant dynamic pulsing, rather than a ‘zoning’ on/off approach used by other systems, to dramatically reduce energy usage and maintain a room’s temperature within 0.1C of its target, 24 hours a day.
The system works best by constantly pulsing across a flat demand profile, with no morning or evening energy spikes in usage.
With this method, the system can achieve around 25% savings in the unit cost of energy using a flexi tariff.
The results of using dynamic pulsing, plus the infrared panels, are significant, as users can expect to use up to 60% less electricity when compared to conventional systems.
Low-carbon heat panels can also reduce carbon emissions by up to 60% in flats or studios when compared with conventional heating systems.
They are also fully futureproofed to partner with solar and battery solutions for a complete net-zero approach.
This heating solution can not only help lower energy consumption, and therefore costs, but also reduce a property’s environmental impact.
A further benefit of low-carbon heat panels use is they can be fitted in a new purpose-built building or retrofitted to replace an existing gas or electric heating system using the electrical mains wiring.
Living in a warm and safe environment is critical to our health and wellbeing, something higher education institutions are committed to supporting their students with.
And, despite some accommodation issues, there’s an incredible opportunity to address these challenges and intelligently futureproof the student housing sector, bringing affordable, sustainable, and safe homes to residents. n
JLL has announced the appointment of Sue Asprey Price as the new chief executive for work dynamics across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Based in London, Asprey Price joined JLL in 2017 as the head of work dynamics in the UK and Ireland.
Prior to that, she held senior roles at large real estate companies including CBRE. She has more than 20 years of experience and is known for her client service and strong leadership.
In her new and expanded role, which she takes over from Mark Caskey, her focus is to deliver exceptional client service and drive growth across the region. She will also play a pivotal role in leading the shape and delivery of JLL’s end-to-end integrated corporate occupier solutions across the
Neil Murray, chief executive of work
dynamics at JLL, said: “Sue is a tremendous addition to our global leadership team.
“Her subject matter expertise and commitment to superior client service will help us build on the growing market opportunities in the EMEA region.
“During her time at JLL, she has earned the trust of her colleagues and clients and we are confident about the continued success of our business as we remain laser-focused on building a better world of work.”
Asprey Price added: “I am excited to take on this new role and I look forward to continuing to help our clients navigate the changing world of work.
“With our robust technology and sustainability-driven strategy, we are equipped to help our clients succeed in creating unique and exciting workplace experiences that help foster collaboration, innovation, and culture.”
Browne Jacobson has strengthened its education practice with the appointments of a partner and senior associate specialising in employment law.
Polly O’Malley joins the UK and Ireland law firm as head of education employment after eight years at Stone King, where she was deputy head of education.
And Faisal Sameja has also been hired as senior associate from the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), where he headed up the in-house legal team as senior solicitor.
In her new position at Browne Jacobson, O’Malley will collaborate with Heather Mitchell, education employment partner, to further grow the employment law offering within the 100-strong education practice.
She said: “The firm has developed a tremendous reputation for its legal and HR services to education clients and it’s clear there is a strong appetite from our senior leadership to further grow the employment offering, which has major potential, within this sector.”
Sameja has experience in advising education employers on issues such as
safer recruitment, safeguarding allegations, dismissals, employment tribunal litigation and representation, grievance procedures, and restructures.
Nick MacKenzie, head of education at Browne Jacobson, said: “The recruitment of two high-profile lawyers in the education sector reflects the firm’s ambition for our education team and is another exciting step in the delivery of our strategy to be
recognised as a clear market leader right across the education sector.
“With our latest School Leaders Survey illustrating how staff recruitment and retention is one of the top three organisational priorities in education, there is a growing demand among schools and academies — as well as further and higher education institutions — for employment and HR services.”
CUBO EDI lead, Carol Thomas, has been appointed the new chairman of the Living Black at University Commission.
Thomas, who is accommodation manager at the University of the Arts, London, joined the CUBO board in 2023 to lead on the development and implementation of an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
The strategy aims to support EDI transformation in commercial and campus services and create an inspiring culture where all students and staff can thrive.
Living Black at University (LBU) was a ground-breaking report into Black students’ experience in UK student accommodation, commissioned by Unite Students and carried out by Halpin Partnership in 2022.
The research explores the experiences of Black students across university accommodation and private halls of
Dayle Wheeler, a chartered architectural technologist at education design specialist, LSI Architects, has qualified as a certified Passivhaus designer after undertaking a two-month course provided by Coaction Training CIC.
The course teaches the core concepts behind the Passivhaus standard, considerations and methodologies for its implementation, and the use of the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP) for achieving low energy performance.
Acting as a technical lead on many of LSI’s ongoing projects, which include a number of education developments, Wheeler is already a qualified PAS
achievement demonstrates his continued commitment to sustainable design and dedication to delivering high-performance buildings.
His recent project experience includes a £13m transformation project at Morley College London’s North Kensington Centre for Skills, which provided state-of-theart new educational facilities alongside modern and inclusive new community facilities.
He said: “I have been interested in the Passivhaus design methodology for many years so it’s really exciting to now be a certified designer.
residence, amplifying their voices and stories to the wider higher education (HE) sector.
In 2024 Unite Students partnered with CUBO to jointly lead a new phase of the Living Black at University Commission. This partnership will take further national action to support equity, inclusion, and belonging in student accommodation and wider campus services across the UK.
Thomas said: “Every student deserves to feel that they belong.
“The Living Black at University Commission is at the forefront of creating positive change to finally address the gap and ensure black students feel safe, seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
“It’s an honour to step into the role of chair, working together with Unite Students to drive meaningful change across the sector.”
“The science-based approach to designing energy-efficient, comfortable, and affordable buildings has always appealed to me, particularly the focus on high-performance, fabric-first design principles alongside a high quality of detailing and construction.
“It’s so important that we as an industry close the performance gap between design and as-built and the Passivhaus methodology has been proven to close this gap.”
Director, Mirja Mainwaring, added: “Our approach to sustainability in relation to the way we design our buildings always begins at first principles, which we believe is well aligned to the principles of Passivhaus.
“In our experience this is an effective way of engaging clients and project sponsors in the importance of a considered approach to sustainable design.
“We are delighted to see Dayle successfully qualify as a certified Passivhaus designer, which is further recognition of the considerable expertise within our design team.
“We are committed to continuing to support our clients in responding to the targets relating to sustainability and net zero, by creating excellent buildings and spaces that are good for both people and the planet.”