Press Q&A: Schools closures due to RAAC and the use of temporary classrooms

We have been supplying temporary classrooms for hire into schools for over four decades and have definitely seen an increase in enquiries over the last few days.

We have received numerous enquiries from academies, schools and main contractors. We expect to receive more enquiries over the coming days and weeks via the CCS modular buildings framework.

Has there been any regional variances in enquiries?

Enquiries have been from across the UK however, the South-East does appear to be a regional hotspot at the moment.

Is the Government supporting the use of temporary classrooms?

The Government’s Education Hub: ‘Everything you need to know about the new guidance on RAAC in education settings’ has put forward guidance to schools. An element of this includes the use of temporary classrooms for teaching spaces:

“…This could include using other on-site buildings, local spaces, safety measures in the affected area and, in some cases, erecting temporary buildings.“

Does Algeco have stock of temporary classrooms for hire available?

Yes, we have stock of temporary classrooms for hire.

What is the leadtime on an Algeco temporary classroom?

Lead time depends on the size of the teaching space required. Around 3 weeks for a single temporary classroom. Larger layouts, including teaching blocks and whole schools are on longer lead times.

Why would a school choose Algeco?

Algeco has a highly experienced team of project managers that can advise on classroom layouts, and provide a single point of contact from start to finish. Critical to this is on time project completion – a factor never more important when school children are having to be taught at home in some cases – put simply, schools need to know the temporary classrooms will be there when they are meant to be.

Alongside this is an exemplary H&S record at Algeco. Health and Safety is at the core of everything the business does in order to ensure a safe environment for staff, clients, and stakeholders.

We’ve earned a reputation for delivering value for money and we have flexible finance solutions available to help in situations like currently.

Is there any environmental benefits of using temporary classrooms?

Algeco temporary classrooms are flexible and re-usable, meaning that there is minimal environmental impact. This re-usability and recyclability, combined with energy efficiency, contribute to the Algeco ‘loops within loops’ model. This is at the heart of the company’s strategy, which employs circular economy principles to minimise waste throughout its whole operations and activities.

What do schools get when they order a temporary classroom?

Algeco temporary classrooms are available in a whole range of configurations, offering light and airy, comfortable teaching spaces. Modules are stackable up to four storeys high, useful where available land is restricted. If the needs of the school change over time, it’s easy to add or remove modules or to reconfigure your space.

Are the temporary classrooms ready to begin lessons?

Algeco can deliver fully operational portable classrooms and educational spaces as part of a turnkey solution. This can include furniture hire and access ramps and sustainable climate control products, as well as fire detection and protection systems. Project teams can take care of everything, so classrooms are ready to use immediately.