Education is one of our core sectors at Premier Modular and we’re proud to deliver industry-leading education solutions to schools across the country. Encompassing mainstream primary, secondary and SEND schools, our diverse portfolio demonstrates our expertise in delivering top of the class modular classrooms.
So, what are some of the key things for industry leaders and experts to be aware of when targeting best building practice in education?
DfE requirements
The DfE’s newly published school estate management standards outlines the importance of effective estate management. Focusing on maintaining the condition of school land and buildings will ensure the estate is conducive to a positive learning environment. Under this guidance, schools must put measures in place, such as appropriate fire safety procedures and asbestos and legionella risk assessments, and prioritise keeping their estates are safe, warm and weatherproof.
Sustainability
Modular construction significantly reduces the challenges of nuclear projects. By moving the majority of the construction process off site, we tightly control qIn line with the government’s goal of reducing the public sector’s emissions by 75% by 2037, the DfE now expects all educational institutions to have a sustainability lead and a climate action plan in place. A whole-school approach is needed to pioneer carbon reduction and nature recovery, and engaging pupils in this is essential for environmental education and awareness.
Schools can boost their sustainability through:
- Using roof space or unused land for renewable energy generation
- Waste management strategies to reduce operational waste
- Reducing embodied carbon by prioritising repair and replacement
- Installing energy management systems, such as smart plug sockets, to reduce energy wastage
Enhancing biodiversity, improving air quality and increasing access and connection to nature has been proven to improve pupil wellbeing and behaviour.
At Premier Modular, we’re committed to becoming net zero by 2035 and all our offsite modular education solutions have a minimal impact on the environment. Our design team are experts in low and zero carbon technologies, and we offer a range of sustainability value added products and services, such as smart sockets, solar panels and rainwater harvesting. Using high quality materials with a long life, our buildings are pre-designed with a sustainability focus, so at every stage of the building life cycle, from design and construction through to installation and operation, sustainability is kept at the forefront.
Exceeding building codes
There are minimum building codes all structures must adhere to as a legal requirement, but buildings can go above and beyond in their design to elevate their performance. Building above code entails many benefits, such as boosting efficiency and safety, enabling designs that factor in longevity and energy and cost savings.
Water conservation, installing solar panels and investing in high-quality insulation are all ways to exceed building codes and reduce a building’s environmental impact. Insulation is not only great for warmth but also offers increased sound control – a vital consideration in schools where distractions need to be kept to a minimum. Prioritising energy efficiency also keeps out pollutants, meaning schools can have better interior air quality, which is safer to breathe and is proven to improve students’ performance.
At Premier Modular, we exceed industry standards for air permeability. Our precise manufacturing processes mean our buildings offer enhanced thermal efficiency, reduced heat loss and lower running costs.
Read more about some of our industry-leading education projects here or get in touch with a member of our team.