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Summer Break: A Time for Renewal at Your School
School summer break – a joyous time for pupils, a well-deserved rest for teachers. But for school site staff, these six weeks offer a unique opportunity.
By Joanne Fisher
Head of Facilities Management Services
While the halls are quiet and classrooms empty, it's a prime time to tackle projects that simply wouldn't be feasible during the hustle and bustle of the school year. From deep cleaning to preventative maintenance, let's explore how school site staff can use this valuable time to ensure a smooth transition back to a vibrant learning environment when the Autumn term begins.
Deep Cleaning and Hygiene
Pupils and staff leave their mark on a school throughout the year. Summer break provides a window for a thorough clean, ensuring the school shines upon everyone's return.
- Floorcare: This is the time for stripping and sealing floors, a process that's disruptive with pupils present. Additionally, buffing and polishing can restore shine and enhance the look of tired floors.
- Classroom Blitz: Deep cleaning goes beyond floors. Desks, shelves, and cabinets can be disinfected and reorganised. This allows for a fresh start and provides teachers with a clean slate for the new school year.
- Better Bathrooms: Toilets often require extra attention. Schedule deep cleans for toilets, sinks, and showers, focusing on removing tough stains and ensuring proper sanitation.
Preventative Maintenance
Schools experience wear and tear throughout the year. Summer break allows for proactive maintenance, preventing problems and saving resources down the line.
- Heating Inspection: A thorough inspection of the heating and ventilation system helps identify potential issues before they escalate. Scheduling repairs during the break ensures minimal disruption to learning when the new term begins.
- Plumbing Maintenance: Check for leaks, test valves, and address any minor plumbing issues that could lead to bigger problems later.
- Electrical Safety: Conduct electrical safety checks on outlets, fixtures, and wiring. Early detection of potential problems can prevent accidents and ensure a safe learning environment.
- Fire Safety: Review fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and sprinkler systems. This also presents the opportunity to conduct fire drills and evacuation procedures with staff present
Security and Access Control
School security is paramount. Summer break offers a chance to reassess and improve security measures.
- Key Management: Review key protocols and consider replacing worn or malfunctioning keys. Conduct an inventory of all keys and ensure they are properly accounted for.
- Perimeter Security: Check fences, gates, and windows for any signs of damage or vulnerabilities. Ensure proper lighting illuminates all access points.
- Alarm Systems: Test security alarms and ensure they are functioning properly. Update any outdated passwords or access codes.
Classroom and Facility Improvements
Schools can use the summer break to improve the learning environment for children and staff.
- Furniture Reorganisation: Refurbish classrooms with new layouts that promote collaboration or cater to learners’ needs. This includes rearranging furniture, setting up new learning spaces, and ensuring proper seating arrangements.
- Painting and Decorating: A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into a classroom. Consider engaging students in creating murals or inspirational quotes to personalise a suitable space when they return.
- Technology Upgrades: Summer offers a window for installing new technology equipment in classrooms, such as projectors, smartboards, or even updating the network infrastructure.
Additional Considerations
- Inventory Management: Conduct a thorough inventory of school supplies, equipment, and furniture. Discard or repair damaged items, and replenish necessary supplies to ensure a well-stocked environment for the upcoming year.
- Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance: Address overgrown vegetation, remove debris, and enhance the school's curb appeal. This involves trimming trees, mowing lawns, and addressing any landscaping concerns.
Strictly Education: Your Summer Break Partner
While school site staff are adept at handling a multitude of tasks, some projects can be particularly time-consuming or require specialised expertise. Strictly Education's Facilities Staffing Service provides an extra pair of hands during this crucial period. Our team can assist with projects like:
- Furniture Movement and Installation
- Classroom Setup and Reorganisation
- Minor Repairs and Maintenance Tasks
- Deep Cleaning Services
- Inventory Management and Organisation
By partnering with Strictly Education, you can free up valuable time for your core staff to focus on other priorities, ensuring a smooth and successful transition back to the school year.
Summer break is more than just downtime for school facilities. It's a strategic opportunity to refresh, repair, and revitalise the learning environment. By implementing a comprehensive plan and potentially partnering with a facilities staffing service, school site staff can lay the groundwork for a successful and productive school year ahead.
To discuss your needs call Strictly Education on 0330 123 2549 or email enquire@strictlyeducation.co.uk