Many schools lack adequate acoustic treatments leading to noisy and reverberant environments. There are a wide variety of tools and strategies available to address acoustic issues many of which are cost-effective and simple to implement. With a few straightforward changes, schools can create a more conducive learning environment, enhancing communication, concentration, and overall student well-being. Ultimately, prioritising acoustics is an investment in the future of education, benefiting both students and teachers alike.
Four Square has the products, skills, and experience to help you create a calmer, quieter and more effective school environment. In this article we will:
- identify the common causes of poor acoustics in UK schools
- explore the impact of noise on students and teachers
- consider how these acoustic challenges can be addressed.
What are the common causes of poor acoustics in UK schools?
Understanding the roots of excessive noise in schools is the first step towards creating a better auditory environment for students and teachers. We have identified the top five factors affecting acoustics in UK schools:
1. Older buildings
Many UK schools are housed in period properties with high ceilings and large, ill-fitting windows which contribute to excessive reverberation and poor sound quality.
2. Hard surfaces
Concrete walls, tile floors, and hard tables reflect sound rather than absorb it. Combined with a lack of carpets and curtains, this increases echo and sound levels.
3. Open plan layouts
Contemporary open plan designs may promote flexibility and collaboration, but without walls and partitions to contain sound, noise travels across the space, creating a distracting environment.
4. External noise
Schools located near busy roads, construction sites, or other noisy environments suffer from external noise intrusion. Poorly insulated windows and doors can also allow this noise to penetrate classrooms.
5. Heating and ventilation
Older or poorly maintained heating systems can produce constant background noise that competes with speech, making it difficult for students to hear and concentrate.
What is impact of poor acoustics on students and teachers?
- Ability to hear
Being able to hear is critical for developing language and listening skills and this is directly affected by sound quality in classrooms. Poor acoustics makes school-life especially difficult for students with hearing impairments or those for whom English is an additional language but it also has a particular impact on young children. The World Health Organisation estimates that "At any one time up to 40% of children in a primary school class in the UK have some form of hearing impediment - due either to permanent damage or as a result of colds/ear infections."
- Cognitive overload and mental wellbeing
When students struggle to hear, they expend more brain power trying to understand what is being said. This can lead to increased fatigue and reduced ability to focus on tasks. Good acoustics reduce this cognitive load leading to improved academic performance, a more enjoyable learning experience and an enhanced sense of wellbeing for everyone in the classroom space.
- Less inclusive environments
Many students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) such as autism spectrum disorders or attention deficit disorders, are particularly sensitive to noise. By prioritising good acoustics, schools can create a more supportive and inclusive environment that meets the needs of all learners.
- Behavioural issues
Excessive noise can lead to higher levels of stress and frustration among both students and teachers, potentially escalating into behavioural issues. Effective acoustic design helps to control ambient noise, creating a calmer and more focused environment that is conducive to learning and positive social interactions.
- Strain on teachers
Teachers are the backbone of the educational system, and their well-being is critical to the success of any school. Poor acoustics can lead to vocal strain as teachers may have to raise their voices to be heard, leading to fatigue and even long-term vocal health issues.
How can acoustic challenges be addressed?
Resolving the common causes of poor acoustics in UK schools is essential for creating a conducive learning environment. By understanding and mitigating these factors, schools can enhance speech intelligibility, reduce distractions, and support better educational outcomes.
In 2003 new government guidelines were introduced for both decibel and reverberation times in school spaces. Although these BB93 guidelines strictly apply to new schools and refurbishments, at Four Square we try our best to meet these standards for any project we undertake.
All Four Square acoustic products are designed by us from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) felt. PET is not only more effective than other manufactured and natural acoustic materials, it is more sustainable. Crafted from 60% recycled materials, equivalent to approximately 280 plastic bottles per panel, it can be designed and printed with multiple patterns and colours.
Our expert team can offer you a free acoustic survey with guidance about which products might best support your needs. Here are some simple solutions to consider:
1. Acoustic wall and ceiling treatments
Acoustic panels and ceiling baffles are relatively easy to fit and can make a tremendous difference to controlling sound in classrooms. You can attach them to walls and ceilings to absorb sound waves, reducing echo and reverberation. Fitted and suspended screens can also quieten existing classroom spaces while movable screens can be used to create flexible semi-enclosed areas for small group teaching and play.
2. Biophilic design
This approach has proven successful in workspaces and integrates natural elements such as plants and nature-inspired patterns to reconnect students with nature. You could apply a biophilic approach to soft furnishing such as curtains and carpets as well as screens, and use real plants and shrubbery to scatter sound waves to reduce echo.
3. Sound-absorbing accessories
As well as standard acoustic products, Four Square can help you reduce noise across the entire school with bespoke and sustainable products made from sound-absorbing PET including plant holders, light fittings, waste bins and inspiring wall art.
4. Reviewing layouts and zoning
Arranging desks and chairs in a way that minimises sound reflections and maximises direct sound paths can help improve speech clarity. Additionally, placing bookshelves and other large furniture against walls can reduce echo. Designating zones within a school can bring focus to noise reduction; for example you could designate libraries and study areas as quiet zones and apply stricter controls than in, for example, the cafeteria.
Book a free acoustic survey
Acoustics play a crucial role in the learning environment, directly affecting communication, concentration, and overall academic performance. Many UK schools were built with minimal consideration for acoustic performance and multiple research studies show that classroom noise has significant consequences for the academic achievement of students and the wellbeing of both teachers and pupils. Our experts can work with you to create a calmer more effective educational environment in your school.
Contact us now to arrange an online or in-person appointment.
T: 01923 774242 E: sales@foursquarefurniture.uk