School modernisation is a phrase you can’t go far without hearing.
The problem…
Over 90% of schools are still well behind when it comes to tech and websites. Furniture also remains a mess of mismatched mishaps for too many institutions.
The good news?
School modernisation doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right strategy, any institution can create a school that works as a learning environment.
What you’ll find in this checklist:
- Why Modern School Improvement is Necessary
- The Ultimate Tech Checklist for Schools
- Creating an Effective School Web Presence
- Quality Classroom Furniture Makes a Difference
- Bringing it all Together
Why Modern School Improvement is Necessary
School modernisation isn’t just about shiny new tech. It’s about creating an environment for learning.
Let’s look at the facts…
80% of schools around the world already have technology in place for learning use. If your school isn’t on that list, you are seriously disadvantaged by your pupils.
But technology is only one part of the modern school equation. Connectivity infrastructure also needs to be in place to provide a complete overhaul. Digital tools must be matched with properly constructed physical learning spaces. This is where selecting the right educational furniture supplier for quality classroom furniture becomes critical to the foundation for learning success.
Benefits of total modernisation include:
- Better student focus and engagement
- Improved learning outcomes
- Increased teacher satisfaction and retention
- Enhanced parent communication and involvement
- Competitive advantage to attract new students
It really is that simple…
The Ultimate Tech Checklist for Schools
So let’s cover the essentials when it comes to technology…
Connectivity Infrastructure
Connectivity is the foundation of every school technology stack. Without it, nothing else works. Schools need powerful WiFi that can support hundreds of simultaneous users.
Key components of connectivity:
- High-speed broadband (1Gbps+ for larger schools)
- Complete WiFi coverage (indoors and outdoors)
- Redundant internet connections
- Network security and content filtering
Device Management
Students require devices to use technology. There are many device options including tablets, laptops, and Chromebooks. Selecting the right type and device management plan is key.
Important device considerations:
- One-to-one (1:1) device plans for students
- Charging and infrastructure
- Device management software
- Repair and replacement
Interactive Learning Tools
Interactive whiteboards and smart displays are fast replacing old-school whiteboards. With the right equipment, teachers can create lessons that really capture student attention.
Digital learning platforms are also extremely important. These allow students to access lesson materials and teachers to track individual pupil progress.
Building a Web Presence that Works
Your school website is often the first thing parents see.
The problem…
School websites are hard to navigate and often outdated. Creating a good impression is critical to getting parents involved and engaged with their children’s education.
Modern school websites need:
- Mobile-responsive design
- Key contact information and important dates
- Parent portal for access to grades, attendance, and more
- Event calendar (keep it updated!)
- News section with a feed of school highlights
Parent involvement is correlated with better student behaviour and higher achievement. A modern school website makes parent engagement far easier.
Social Media for Schools
Schools also need a social media presence. Facebook, Instagram, and even YouTube channels help bring the school community to life for parents.
Don’t try to do everything…
Pick 2-3 platforms that work for your school and make them work.
Quality Classroom Furniture Makes a Difference
This is a place where many schools still make critical mistakes.
Schools will throw thousands at technology and websites… Then cram their students into uncomfortable, mismatched 1980s furniture.
Studies from the University of Salford have shown that classroom design features can improve or hinder academic progress by as much as 25% over a single school year. We are talking about a major impact here for something most school boards still take for granted.
What Does Modern Classroom Furniture Look Like?
Rows of fixed desks bolted to the floor are so last century. Modern learning environments need to be flexible.
Key furniture features:
- Adjustable height desks and chairs
- Ergonomic seating to support good posture
- Mobile furniture that can be reconfigured in minutes
- Collaboration spaces for group work
- Quiet areas with soft seating
Teachers also report 74% better student engagement in lessons using personalised learning stations. Furniture setup has a real impact on student attentiveness and participation.
Flexibility is Key
Classrooms need flexibility in furniture arrangements for different lessons. Lectures need rows, group projects need to be in clusters. Individual work may be suited to separated stations.
Time is saved with the right flexible furniture that can be moved between these set-ups in minutes.
Durability is important
School furniture needs to last. Quality pieces withstand years of use without falling apart.
Look for:
- Steel frames, reinforced joints
- Stain-resistant, wipe-clean surfaces
- 10+ years warranties
- Safety and durability certifications
Cheap furniture will cost more in repairs and replacement in the long term.
Bringing it all Together
School modernisation is a process and requires coordination.
Tech, web presence, and furniture all need to fit together. A great new website is of little use if the school’s WiFi doesn’t support the traffic or pages load slowly. Interactive whiteboards and tablets are wasted if students are too distracted by uncomfortable chairs and desks.
School modernisation implementation should:
- Begin with an infrastructure assessment
- Focus on priority areas based on need and budget
- Take place in phases over a number of years
- Solicit feedback from teachers, students, and parents
- Be reviewed and adjusted as needed
The Bottom Line
School modernisation is no longer an option. It is a critical step for all those institutions serious about properly preparing students for their future.
It isn’t complicated…
Strong tech infrastructure. A professional school web presence. Furniture that complements learning rather than distracting from it. Three key pillars that are the foundation for all modern school environments.
Schools that get these 3 elements right experience dramatic improvements in student outcomes, parent satisfaction, and teacher effectiveness. Those that fail to deliver on even one of these areas fall behind and spend their time playing catch up.
There is no excuse. The future is now.
