8 Ways To Keep Your School Refurbishment Project Looking As Good As New

[vc_row row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column][vc_column_text]After a long summer spent creating inspirational learning environments in a range of schools, it’s hard not to spare a thought for the users, and maintainers of the new spaces. Whilst it’s relatively easy to create a shiny new space during school refurbishment projects, keeping it shiny and new (especially with the daily traffic of hundreds of teenagers) isn’t always so easy.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]We’ve put together 8 ways in which you can keep your school refurbishment project looking as good as new. Whilst the smell of new paint might fade, you can ensure that the inspiration lasts for longer with these tips:

1. Keep it clean – Whilst it might seem obvious, it is important to make sure your space is kept clean. Not just looking clean, but really clean. Ensure that your school maintenance team or cleaners are keeping up with your expectations. Dirt and grime can build up quickly, especially in high traffic areas. Don’t be afraid to speak out if you think your space isn’t being cared for properly. After all, it is your investment so you have a right to make sure that it is maintained correctly.
2. Keep Clutter at Bay – The old adage, clutter breeds clutter is certainly true. If your refurbishment project is an area of the school that uses a lot of resources, make sure that you keep the space tidy. A build-up of clutter can quickly make a new space look untidy and uncared for.
3. Ban Food and Drink – In some spaces, like dining halls or social areas, this is going to be impossible. However, in most areas a ‘no food’ policy will help to avoid spills and damage to furniture or décor. If you do have a spillage, ensure that it is cleared up properly.
4. Stamp down on vandalism – Introduce an effective discipline strategy to wipe out vandalism. One school that we worked with managed vandalism by ruling that the parents of the guilty student had to purchase the broken item, and take it home. That way, the replacement was paid for, and the broken or damaged item was disposed of. Of course, the parents weren’t too happy with the cost of a new chair, and even less pleased to have one added to their home. Needless to say, vandalism soon decreased in this school!
5. Keep up the maintenance – Check for damaged furniture and décor on a regular basis. Watch for chipped paint, signs of vandalism or other features of wear and tear. Fix small issues as soon as you can.
6. Store cleaning equipment near to hand – Make it as easy as possible to clear up your space. Store cleaning cloths and a vacuum cleaner nearby. Easy access to cleaning equipment will leave less reason for procrastination and make it easier for spills or breakages to be cleared away.
7. Everything in it’s place – As well as cleaning equipment, it is also important to ensure that your space has enough relevant tidy-up facilities. Items like bins, shelves and storage cupboards will help to keep the space tidy and ensure that junk isn’t left lying around.
8. Assign the responsibility to the students – Make sure that the students using the space understand that it is their responsibility to maintain and look after their newly refurbished space. Putting the onus on the students, and allowing them to personalise the area will help to give them a greater sense of ownership for the space.

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Looking after your space will help it last for longer, allowing you to get more return from your investment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” css=”.vc_custom_1435596396423{padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1435596403772{padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][action type=”normal” show_button=”yes” button_text=”Contact us” button_link=”https://envoplan.co.uk/contact-us”]Looking for more ideas for your school environment? Need inspiration for your School Refurbishment Projects?

Contact us to request your own copy of our ‘Inspirational Learning Environments’  Brochure.[/action][/vc_column][/vc_row]