top of page

Greener Classrooms, Smarter Futures: How Net Zero Targets Are Reshaping School Refurbishment

  • Rob Main
  • Nov 18, 2025
  • 2 min read

More than 60% of the UK’s school estate was built before 1976—making sustainability upgrades a massive challenge for net zero by 2050.

Why Sustainability Can't Be an Afterthought Anymore 


The UK Government’s net zero ambition by 2050 is reshaping industries across the board—but for education, the challenge is enormous. With ageing buildings, inefficient energy systems, and outdated layouts, schools are among the public sector’s biggest carbon culprits.


In 2025, the DfE has doubled down on its Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy, pushing school leaders to start thinking greener—right now. For those planning refurbishments, that means weaving sustainability into the DNA of every project, not bolting it on as an afterthought.


Children and a teacher in a greenhouse, examining plants and using a microscope. The teacher guides the children, creating a curious, educational atmosphere.

From Compliance to Culture Shift 


This isn’t just about reducing utility bills or ticking off BREEAM points. It’s about shifting the educational culture towards environmental responsibility—and giving students spaces that mirror the values we want to teach.

Modern refurbishments offer a powerful opportunity to embed net zero principles into how schools function day-to-day:


  • Smart lighting & HVAC upgrades

  • Low-VOC paints and recycled materials

  • Natural ventilation and daylighting

  • Biophilic design to boost wellbeing and reduce energy demand

  • Durable, long-life fittings that reduce waste over time


It’s not just about reshaping school refurbishment or emissions—it’s about legacy.



What the DfE Expects from Schools in 2025 and Beyond 


Schools now face rising expectations to:


  1. Track and reduce their operational carbon footprint

  2. Create site-wide sustainability strategies

  3. Engage pupils and staff in eco-behaviour

  4. Work with partners who understand green design, not just delivery


The challenge? Many school estates weren’t built with these principles in mind. That’s where intelligent refurbishment comes in.



Why Refurbishment is the Net-Zero Fast Track 


Compared to full new-builds, smart refurbishments offer a far faster and more cost-effective way to cut carbon while improving function. By upgrading inefficient systems, materials, and layouts, schools can:


  • Lower energy usage and bills

  • Improve ventilation and air quality

  • Reduce maintenance and repair cycles

  • Align with green building frameworks (BREEAM, LEED, DfE’s GenZero pilot)


And importantly: refurbishment often involves less disruption to school life than starting from scratch.


How Brookhouse Helps Schools Build Sustainably 


At Brookhouse, we believe great design and sustainability go hand in hand. That’s why we integrate eco-conscious thinking into every aspect of our design and fit-out process.


Sustainable materials – From FSC timber to SGL surfaces that outlast traditional options 

Minimised waste – Precision design means less surplus, less landfill 

Modular & upgradeable systems – So schools can evolve their spaces over time 

Smart space planning – Maximises daylight, airflow, and human-centred design

Our in-house manufacturing gives us full control over quality and sustainability—while our team helps you balance green goals with budget, timelines, and curriculum needs.



Final Thought Refurbishment isn’t just about fresh paint and better storage. It’s about transforming the way learning environments impact the planet—and the people inside them.


  • Sustainable design isn’t optional anymore. It’s an opportunity.

  • If you’re planning upgrades in 2025, let’s talk about how Brookhouse can help you design for a greener future.


Ready to put your funding to work?


Get in touch with Brookhouse on 0345 383 0050, or email us on inspire@brookhouseuk.com


Let’s design a space that enables success.


Comments

The Smarter, Safer Way to Deliver Your Project

One Team. One Timeline.

No need to chase multiple trades. We handle everything from planning to delivery — keeping you informed and in control.

Built on Insight. Delivered with Precision.

We use Revit design, 3D scans and full site surveys to plan for every detail — avoiding rework and reducing costly site changes later.

Clear Communication. Zero Confusion.

With a single point of contact, we strive to ensure that nothing gets lost in translation. You’ll always know what’s happening and what to expect next.

Fewer Hiccups. Faster Completion.

Our in-house design and manufacturing means fewer handovers, less risk, and quicker results: with spaces that work right from day one.

One Supplier. Fewer Delays. Better Outcomes.

One Expert Partner

Avoid fragmented supply chains and costly delays. With Brookhouse, you get one accountable team – design, manufacture & installation, all under one roof.

End-to-End Project Control

From initial survey to final snagging, we manage every step. That means fewer surprises, better coordination, and a space delivered exactly as promised.

Specialist Knowledge, Smarter Outcomes

50 years in education and commercial interiors means we anticipate issues before they arise – creating safer, more compliant, and more inspiring spaces.

Designed for Longevity

We don’t just install — we build for the future. Durable finishes, future-proof layouts and technical compliance mean your investment performs for years to come.

bottom of page