Lessons In Value

Click on image to enlarge

178 school rebuilds and refurbishments were completed under the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme between 2005 and 2010, but since it was axed in July 2010, and further reductions were made to education budgets, school spending has been at an all time low. A study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies estimates that public spending on education in the UK will fall by 3.5% per year in real terms between 2010–11 and 2014–15. This represents the largest cut in education spending over any four-year period since at least the 1950s.

BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) has been the most widely used environmental evaluation tool for school buildings over the past few years. However, with The Department of Education proposing to scrap BREEAM requirements for new schools as part of its drive to streamline procurement and further reduce costs, it’s clear that contractors are under more pressure than ever to deliver the right flooring solutions for schools – but at the right cost.

Gradus’ Stratus II carpet tiles provide a durable, low-maintenance floorcovering solution for education buildings. The range is incredibly cost effective, comes with a 12 year wear warranty and has been awarded the highest Green Guide A+ rating under the BRE’s certified environmental profile scheme, in recognition of its sustainability credentials.

Overall, at a time when school spending is being cut even further, contractors must specify flooring that can stand the test of time and be hardwearing, repairable and easy to maintain. With replacement periods likely to be longer than we have seen in the past, carpet tiles are an ideal solution, as they are easily replaceable and are able to withstand the effects of thousands of young feet.