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As schools place greater emphasis on wellbeing, staff retention and sustainability, the quality of the indoor environment is becoming a core part of estates and facilities strategy
Many schools and trusts already consider aspects of the indoor environment when planning, refurbishing or maintaining buildings. However, these factors have often been treated as part of general maintenance or compliance rather than a strategic priority in their own right.
With increasing pressure on budgets, rising expectations around wellbeing, and a stronger focus on outcomes such as attendance, behaviour and attainment, indoor environmental quality (IEQ) is now being recognised as a key driver of effective learning environments.
IEQ refers to the conditions inside school buildings that influence the health, comfort and performance of pupils and staff. It typically covers four main areas: air quality, lighting, acoustics and thermal comfort. When managed well, these factors contribute to better concentration, improved behaviour and a more positive experience for both pupils and staff.
Looking ahead, IEQ in schools is likely to become more closely linked to digital monitoring and real-time data, helping leaders understand how buildings are performing and where improvements are needed.
There is also a growing shift towards more responsive environments that can better support different learning styles, pupil needs and seasonal changes. This includes a stronger focus on flexibility, inclusion and wellbeing as part of everyday estate management.
For school and trust business leaders, IEQ provides a practical framework for thinking about how buildings directly support educational outcomes. By taking a more joined-up approach to air quality, lighting, acoustics and thermal comfort, schools can create environments that are not only more comfortable, but also more effective for learning and teaching.
Good air quality is essential for concentration and cognitive performance. In schools, this means ensuring effective ventilation in classrooms, reducing the build-up of carbon dioxide and minimising pollutants that can affect health and alertness. Simple approaches such as improving natural ventilation, monitoring air conditions in high-use spaces and introducing nature-based elements where appropriate can all help create fresher, healthier learning environments.
Lighting has a direct impact on pupil engagement, mood and concentration. Classrooms that make good use of natural daylight, while avoiding glare and overexposure, tend to support better focus and wellbeing. Supporting this with well-designed artificial lighting that is consistent, comfortable and appropriate for different learning activities helps create a more balanced and effective environment throughout the school day.
Noise levels can significantly affect learning, particularly in open or busy classroom environments. Poor acoustics can make it harder for pupils to concentrate and for teachers to be heard clearly, increasing fatigue and reducing lesson effectiveness. Improving acoustic conditions through better space planning, sound-absorbing materials and clear separation between quiet and active areas can help create calmer, more focused learning spaces.
Temperature consistency plays an important role in maintaining concentration and comfort. Overheating or cold spots in classrooms can be distracting and impact learning outcomes. Providing more consistent heating and ventilation across different areas of the school, alongside allowing some flexibility where possible, helps ensure spaces remain comfortable for a wide range of users and activities.
Holly is the managing editor of Education Executive, working closely with the team and contributors to bring fresh, varied and relevant content to our magazines, wraps and digital platforms. She joined the team in 2023, having spent several years working in publishing, following an earlier career in training, development and coaching across a range of sectors. Holly is passionate about championing school and trust business professionals and ensuring the role receives the platform and recognition it deserves.
