As millions of pupils prepare to head back to the classroom this September, commercial refurbishment specialist Prestige Interiors is urging schools not to lose sight of the learning environment amid new-term preparations.
The call comes as the Education Select Committee’s 2026 report, Foundations of Learning, warned that England’s ageing school estate requires sustained long-term investment, while a recent survey by school leaders’ union NAHT found that 51% of schools in England have buildings or areas that are out of use or unfit for purpose because of issues including leaking roofs, damp, mould and ageing infrastructure.
With pupils out of the classroom for six weeks over the summer, Prestige Interiors says the holiday period provides schools with a vital opportunity to carry out refurbishment projects with minimal disruption. From replacing worn flooring and redecorating classrooms to upgrading reception areas, washrooms and staff facilities, planned improvements can help create learning environments that are safer, more welcoming and better suited to the demands of modern education.
The importance of investing in school environments goes beyond aesthetics. Research from the University of Salford’s internationally recognised HEAD (Holistic Evidence and Design) Project found that classroom design, including lighting, air quality, temperature, colour and layout, can account for up to 16% of the variation in pupils’ academic progress over the course of a school year, demonstrating the impact well-designed learning spaces can have on educational outcomes.
Victoria Beacham, Director at Prestige Interiors, said: “Back to school isn’t just about new uniforms and fresh stationery; it’s also about ensuring pupils return to learning environments that support their wellbeing, engagement and success. The summer holidays offer schools a valuable window to complete refurbishment work without interrupting teaching, allowing essential improvements to be made before classrooms fill up again in September.”
The benefits extend beyond pupils. High-quality learning environments also contribute to staff wellbeing, helping create workplaces that teachers and support staff are proud to work in while leaving a positive first impression for parents, visitors and prospective students.
“Schools are expected to do more than ever with their buildings,” added [Surname]. “Whether it’s replacing tired flooring, improving lighting and acoustics, modernising reception areas or refreshing communal spaces, investing in the school environment is ultimately an investment in the people who use it every day. Well-maintained, thoughtfully designed spaces help schools make the best possible start to every academic year.”
With many schools already looking ahead to future holiday periods to schedule improvement works, Prestige Interiors is encouraging schools, academies and multi-academy trusts to plan refurbishment programmes well in advance, ensuring projects can be completed efficiently and with minimal disruption to learning.
