School air conditioning has become an increasing priority in the UK as summer exam temperatures have drawn media attention and research has demonstrated the impact of high temperatures on examination performance. Here is a practical guide for school business managers, headteachers and governors considering air conditioning.
The Summer Exam Temperature Problem
UK exam regulations do not specify a maximum temperature at which exams must be cancelled — there is no legal threshold. However, research consistently shows that cognitive performance declines measurably above 25°C, with GCSE and A-level performance affected above approximately 22°C for extended periods. With classroom temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C in south-facing rooms during the June and July exam season, air conditioning in exam rooms is increasingly considered a duty of care issue.
Priority Areas for School Air Conditioning
Exam halls and classrooms: The highest priority. South-facing classrooms and dedicated examination spaces benefit most from cooling during the summer term.
IT suites: Computer equipment generates significant heat. IT rooms frequently exceed 30°C in summer even without high occupancy, reducing equipment lifespan and making them uncomfortable teaching environments.
Server rooms: School IT infrastructure rooms require year-round cooling regardless of season — critical for network reliability.
Staff rooms and offices: Secondary priority but meaningful for staff welfare and recruitment/retention.
Holiday Installation Programme
School air conditioning installations must be carried out during school holidays — summer and half-term holidays provide the main opportunities. We plan school installation programmes around the academic calendar, completing whole-building programmes across a single summer holiday period where possible.
For maintained schools and academies, we can provide the documentation required for capital expenditure approval — quotations, specifications, and compliance certifications.
DBS-Checked Engineers
All our engineers are DBS checked. Any work carried out in a school environment requires DBS clearance as a minimum. We provide DBS certificates on request for any school procurement process.
Cost
A single classroom installation — 5kW unit appropriate for a standard classroom — typically costs £1,800-2,800. IT suite and server room installations vary by size and requirement. Full school programmes are quoted following a site survey. Call 07833 053749 or contact us for a school consultation.