Updated: 1st November, 2024
Created: 31st October, 2024
Estates and facilities managers in schools have to deal with a vast range of assets. From buildings and grounds to infrastructure and classroom equipment, it’s essential to ensure all assets are well-maintained so they continue operating as required. In school environments where revenue and capital funding are often restricted, and resources need to be used wisely, asset management is crucially important. Without proper oversight, regular maintenance and strategic planning, it’s easy for assets to deteriorate, resulting in costly repairs and replacements that could have otherwise been avoided.
Whether you’re responsible for managing a single school or a multi-academy trust, asset management specialists can help streamline the process. With comprehensive support, you can ensure your educational institution remains functional, safe and inspiring for both staff and students. Below, we have explored the importance of asset management in school estates and facilities in more detail, touching on the benefits of having an asset management plan.
Asset management is a term that refers to the operation, maintenance, upgrading and development of physical assets. For schools, this typically includes things such as classrooms, playgrounds, sports facilities, heating systems and IT infrastructure. The goal is to make sure all assets owned by an educational institution are well-maintained and utilised effectively throughout their lifecycle, so they provide maximum value for money.
In schools, asset management involves regular assessments of buildings and facilities to evaluate their condition and ensure they are regularly maintained. It also includes tracking equipment usage and making upgrades as required, ensuring that as needs change over time, the school can continue to operate efficiently. Having the right resources and strategies in place to manage your assets can significantly impact not just your bottom line, but the happiness of staff and students, and ultimately the success of your school.
Among the many tasks involved in running a school, asset management is one of the most important. It’s essential for several reasons, including;
Compliance – Schools have to comply with a variety of regulations and meet strict standards, particularly when it comes to the health and safety of students. Regularly inspecting assets and carrying out any required repairs or upgrades helps ensure estates and facilities are safe for everyone on site. In addition to maintaining a safe learning environment, compliance can help schools avoid costly fines and reputational damage, which can put additional strain on resources.
Cost Efficiency – Strategic management of school assets can prevent unexpected breakdowns, emergency repairs and premature replacements. By identifying and addressing any issues early, schools can keep estates and facilities in good condition and prolong the life of assets. This is integral for educational institutions with limited funding, enabling them to make better use of their budgets.
Learning Experience – Well-managed assets have a direct impact on the day-to-day experience for both staff and students. When school estates and facilities are maintained, the learning environment will be more enjoyable to spend time in and faulty infrastructure or outdated technology won’t be causing disruptions. Fixing or replacing assets as required will ensure classrooms are comfortable and inspiring, improving overall learning outcomes for students.
Sustainability – Effective asset management also includes sustainability strategies. Schools spend a significant amount each month on energy and inefficient buildings can increase their carbon footprint. When implementing sustainability initiatives through asset management, such as installing a more efficient heating system, educational institutions can reduce their operational costs and environmental impact.
Future Planning – To continue meeting the needs of staff and students, estates and facilities need to constantly evolve. Asset management helps schools plan for the future by assessing their current state and enables them to make informed decisions about upgrades, replacements and expansions. With forward planning, schools can ensure resources are distributed correctly and budgets are well-spent, so they are prepared for whatever the future might hold.
Having an asset management plan is a key part of Good Estate Management for Schools (GEMS) and supports the strategic management of estates and facilities. This short to medium-term plan should outline how an educational institution will manage and maintain its assets. For schools, this plan will include things such as data, policies and procedures related to estates and facilities, as well as how maintenance will be prioritised and decision-making arrangements. Ultimately, an asset management plan will ensure all assets are used efficiently, maintained regularly and replaced or upgraded as required to support the school’s goals.
Working with an asset management specialist to create a comprehensive plan will help educational institutions avoid future issues. With so many competing demands on resources, this plan will become a vital tool for determining how to use them as efficiently as possible. Having a structured approach enables schools to be proactive rather than reactive, and significantly reduces the likelihood of unexpected downtime that disrupts operations. By outlining maintenance schedules, anticipating future needs and managing budgets, asset management plans will become invaluable for schools of all sizes.
Asset management consultants can develop bespoke plans tailored to a school’s specific estate and operational needs. They can help assess the current condition of assets, identify potential risks and outline long-term strategies that will achieve the best results. They can also provide advice to help prioritise areas in need of immediate attention and plan less important works for the future, ensuring resources are allocated appropriately. By collaborating with asset management experts, schools can trust they are making the best decisions for their estates and facilities, ensuring their assets remain protected.
All in all, asset management is a vital component of maintaining school estates and facilities. By taking a proactive approach and enlisting the help of an asset management consultant, schools can remain compliant, enhance the learning environment and save money in the long run. With a comprehensive asset management plan in place, educational institutions will be better equipped to handle any challenges they may face in the future.
If you’re interested in asset management services, Barker can support you with your needs. We have decades of experience developing and implementing effective asset management strategies for schools, and can provide professional advice to assist you in successfully managing your estate. Contact us today to discuss your needs in more detail, our asset management consultants will be happy to answer any questions you have.
Find out how your estates function measures up against the DfE’s Good Estates Management for Schools Guidance using our Estate360 Self-Assessment