The School Premises Handbook: a guide for premises staff, business managers, headteachers and governors

The School Premises Handbook is a comprehensive guide to legal responsibilities for school premises staff, business managers, headteachers, and governors in England. It covers key legislation, the working environment, fire safety, health and safety, statutory compliance duties, planning for maintenance, risk assessments, energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and managing and developing a premises team.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2023
Publisher: John Catt Educational Ltd

The School Premises Handbook is a comprehensive guide designed to provide valuable insights and guidance to school premises staff, business managers, headteachers, and governors in England. It delves into various aspects of school buildings and grounds, encompassing their impact on student learning, as well as the legal responsibilities and duties associated with their maintenance and management.

The handbook begins by exploring the significance of school buildings and grounds in shaping the learning environment for students. It discusses how the design, layout, and condition of school facilities can influence academic performance, behavior, and overall well-being. It also highlights the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and visitors.

In the subsequent chapters, the handbook covers a wide range of topics related to school premises compliance. It provides detailed information on the working environment, fire safety, health and safety, statutory compliance duties, planning for maintenance, risk assessments, energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and managing and developing a premises team. Jo Marchant, a highly experienced head of estates, introduces key legislation, further information sources, and an action checklist to assist readers in understanding and implementing these requirements effectively.

New premises staff will find the handbook an invaluable resource, offering comprehensive guidance on their first day in the role and throughout their tenure. It covers essential tasks such as understanding the school's facilities, managing maintenance schedules, and developing relationships with stakeholders. More experienced premises staff will also gain valuable insights and tips from the handbook, which covers topics such as strategic planning, budget management, and crisis management.

School business managers will find the handbook particularly useful in managing their premises staff and developing their school estate. It provides advice on staffing, recruitment, training, and performance management, as well as strategies for improving energy efficiency, reducing costs, and maximizing the use of available resources. Headteachers will be informed of their responsibilities for ensuring their schools are safe and compliant with relevant regulations and standards. The handbook outlines the legal requirements and best practices for fire safety, health and safety, and statutory compliance, and provides guidance on developing and implementing effective risk management strategies. Governors and trustees will learn how to hold school leadership to account for their responsibilities in maintaining and developing school premises. It emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring, evaluation, and reporting to ensure that school facilities meet the highest standards of safety and compliance.

In conclusion, The School Premises Handbook is a comprehensive and essential guide for all those involved in the maintenance and management of school buildings and grounds in England. It provides valuable insights, practical advice, and checklists to assist readers in fulfilling their legal responsibilities, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment for students, staff, and visitors. By embracing the principles outlined in this handbook, school premises staff, business managers, headteachers, and governors can contribute to the overall success and well-being of their schools.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 147 x 210 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398388796