Sound support for schools

Holly Rivers of Heckmondwike FB discusses how noise in schools impacts learning and teaching, highlighting the need for better acoustic standards and the role of carpets in creating quieter environments that allow pupils better focus.

In recent years, research has increasingly highlighted the detrimental impact of classroom noise on children’s cognitive and academic performance. Children, particularly those who are younger, have learning disabilities, or struggle with auditory processing, are more vulnerable to the disruptive effects of noise. Prolonged exposure to noise not only hinders academic performance but is also linked to higher stress levels, increased anxiety, and impaired emotional regulation.

The need for acoustic standards in school design

Evidence reveals that the average daily noise exposure in UK schools reaches 72 dB, far exceeding the 35 dB threshold recommended by the World Health Organisation for an optimal learning environment. This stark contrast underscores the urgency for architects to prioritise acoustics when designing classrooms. Consequently, architects must adhere to the BB93 guidelines, established by the Department for Education, which outline the minimum standards for acoustic performance in schools.

The guidelines emphasise that speech clarity is essential to support effective communication. However, studies reveal that children can miss up to 25% of information when exposed to background noise. Even more concerning, over 80% of teachers experience vocal strain due to the difficulty of projecting their voices in noisy environments, which leads to increased absenteeism and stress-related health issues. Therefore, while BB93 provides a critical baseline, it often falls short in addressing the growing complexities of modern educational environments.

Key acoustic challenges in schools

Many of today’s school buildings were designed using architectural features from the 19th and early 20th centuries, such as high ceilings, hard floors, and poor insulation, which unintentionally hinder effective sound management. While these features may offer aesthetic or practical benefits, they often fail to meet the acoustic demands of modern education. For example, hard floors reflect sound waves, amplifying noise rather than absorbing it, which disrupts learning.

Additionally, the increasing popularity of open-plan layouts in educational design has exacerbated this issue. While these spaces encourage collaboration, they also lead to increased sound transmission between classrooms and noisy corridors, increasing background noise, and making it difficult for students to focus, especially during quiet tasks or exams.

The role of carpets in enhancing acoustics

Among the solutions available for addressing noise challenges in schools, one of the most effective, yet often overlooked, approaches is the strategic use of sound-absorbing materials, like carpets. Carpets, due to their fibrous texture, offer a unique advantage in reducing noise from foot traffic, converting sound energy into heat and minimising reverberation throughout the room. Not only does this create a quieter, more focused learning environment but it also improves speech intelligibility. A study by the Acoustical Society of America demonstrated that carpets could improve word recognition by 20% in noisy classrooms. This benefit is particularly beneficial in flexible, open-plan classrooms, where communication is crucial.

For schools seeking enhanced sound insulation, adding an additional layer of material, such as felt, to the back of carpet tiles can boost acoustic performance. This added layer increases the carpet’s ability to block sound transmission between spaces, making it especially useful in high-traffic areas such as corridors, classrooms, and multi-purpose rooms.

Benefits of improving acoustics in schools

The benefits of better acoustics in schools go beyond just compliance with regulations. By addressing acoustic challenges, schools can foster a learning environment that promotes greater student concentration, engagement, and ultimately, better academic outcomes. For students with special educational needs, particularly those with hearing impairments, reducing noise distractions and enhancing speech clarity can dramatically improve their ability to engage with lessons. The Equality Act 2010 mandates that schools provide accessible environments for all students, and acoustics play a vital role in creating inclusive learning spaces. Also, teachers are better able to project their voices, leading to less vocal strain and improved overall health. This results in lower absenteeism and greater job satisfaction.

Combining acoustics & sustainability

As the global focus on sustainability grows, schools are increasingly looking to reduce their environmental impact. Incorporating sustainable materials that support both acoustic and environmental goals is a trend that’s gaining momentum. High-quality carpets are not only effective at reducing noise but can also contribute to schools’ sustainability goals. Many modern carpets are designed to meet environmental certification standards, like LEED certifications, while improving acoustics. This makes carpets a valuable choice for architects looking to achieve high standards of environmental performance in their design.

The future of school design

The way schools are designed is changing rapidly, driven by evolving educational needs and the growing importance of inclusivity, flexibility, and sustainability. As architects work to create modern educational environments, addressing the acoustic challenges of open-plan spaces, traditional architecture, and ensuring inclusivity for all, is a top priority. Ultimately, carpets provide a simple yet effective solution for improving school acoustics. By integrating them into the design of modern classrooms and learning spaces, architects can create environments that foster better communication, enhanced learning, and a healthier, more inclusive atmosphere for all students.

Holly Rivers is marketing assistant at Heckmondwike FB