Technology in Education

With many educational establishments under financial pressure and new budgets becoming available in September, long term investment in modernising and upgrading storage at a cost competitive price is paramount.  When it comes to specification, there are key elements that need to be considered to deliver the right solution as Clive Woodward explains.

When looking to specify new storage solutions within an educational establishment, there are three main criteria that should be considered – durability, safety and functionality.  So firstly check it’s a robust design.  Galvanised steel construction, double-walled doors and reinforced housings offer superior strength and ensure the products are suitable for heavy duty use such as in an ICT, or Design Technology environment.

In addition, high-impact plastics used for storage bins ensure they don’t crack or split over time.  Nylon roller bearing systems in storage drawers can provide a much longer drawer life than metal bearings, with the added advantage of being quieter in operation.  Another indication of a product’s durability is the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit for shelves and drawers, as well as the length of warranty – sure signs that the producer is confident in the longevity of their products.

With educational establishments keeping a close eye on expenditure, choosing systems that have been extensively cycle-tested to withstand heavy duty working conditions, means a longer lifecycle of the storage systems and maximises the return on investment.  It’s also a means to reducing waste sent to landfill, presenting a win-win situation. 

With safety being a primary concern, locking options are essential to ensure pupils do not access tools or chemicals without supervision.  In addition, make sure any drawers feature blocking mechanisms, allowing only one drawer to be open at any time so the unit is not unbalanced.  Check that any mobile storage has heavy duty castors with brakes and think about the versatility of the product.  For example, some cupboards offer adjustable shelves in case the size of contents changes and adaptable drawer partitions help keep equipment in order.

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Another dimension to the safety aspect is the exterior edges of the storage. Look for bevelled edges, which are a smooth finish, helping to prevent pupils and staff from injuring themselves on sharp edges.

Investing in storage indicates that items such as files, books, workshop tools and equipment, are to be kept in an orderly fashion. So, think beyond just the initial type of storage being specified such as cupboards and drawers and go a step further with neat interior configurations. Adjustable dividers, boxes and troughs can all ensure items are properly stored for efficiency, safety and inventory management. Also using modular cupboards, cabinets or workstations to maximum potential means fewer units may be required.

In addition, space is often at a premium, particularly with classroom sizes increasing, so storage and workstations that make best use of the available area are a must. If a room features pillars which stand out from the wall, then worktops can be shaped around them, reducing gaps. Island benches, which use hexagonal worktops and pedestal cabinets, are ideal for creating working areas for groups.

While storage is often chosen for its practicality and seen as a necessity, it can also offer aesthetic benefits. A choice of colour schemes, ergonomic handles, smooth edges and contemporary designs all add to the quality finish. This can help to create a professional image for the establishment, which is vital when looking to attract new pupils. It can also have an impact on the students’ behaviour, helping to instil a sense of pride in their school or college.

It is also worthwhile being aware that storage doesn’t just consist of drawers, cabinets and cupboards. For example, bott’s verso collection includes workbenches, workstands and lecturn style cabinets that can be used in science laboratories and technology and design workshops. There are also mobile systems in an extensive choice of drawer and shelf configurations, to provide space-efficient storage that can be relocated as necessary.

For educational establishments that need help determining the right solution for the job, Bott offers a consultation and design service. This will help to ensure that any investment made in new storage delivers maximum results by exactly meeting the organisation’s needs, being fit-for-purpose, optimising storage configuration for the available space and delivering safe and durable solutions.