Product News


Making the summer break count: Why now is the time for schools to tackle water waste


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s schools across the UK prepare for the summer holidays, water management specialist Cistermiser is encouraging education estates and facilities teams to use the six-week break to tackle one often- overlooked area of inefficiency - water waste.


With budgets under pressure and ageing school buildings requiring increasing attention, the summer shutdown provides a rare opportunity to improve infrastructure without disrupting pupils, teaching or day-to-day operations.


School washrooms endure heavy daily use, yet outdated plumbing systems, leaking toilets and inefficient flushing mechanisms can quietly waste significant volumes of water, driving up utility bills and increasing carbon emissions. In many schools, behavioural challenges such as toilets not being flushed or taps left running only add to the problem.


“Summer holidays are one of the few opportunities schools have to make meaningful improvements to infrastructure without causing disruption,” says Richard Braid, Managing Director at Cistermiser. “Washrooms are high-use environments, yet water efficiency is often overlooked despite the financial and environmental impact inefficient systems can have. Small upgrades can make a significant difference to running costs, hygiene and sustainability outcomes.”


For schools already balancing maintenance backlogs, tackling water waste may feel like another pressure point. However, relatively simple interventions can deliver meaningful long-term savings.


Cathays High School in Cardiff faced repeated complaints from pupils about toilets not being flushed properly. By installing hands-free flushing technology that activates automatically when users walk away, the school improved hygiene standards while reducing unnecessary water use.


As schools prepare for September, now is the time to identify where water and money may be slipping away unnoticed. Small improvements made this summer could deliver benefits all year round.


To find out more email sales@cistermiser.co.uk www.cistermiser.co.uk


Combining style, function & cost- effectiveness at Preston College


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reston College, a leading technical and specialist institution, prides itself on equipping students with the qualifications, skills, and hands-on experience demanded by employers and universities. The college offers a range of purpose-built facilities, including state-of-the-art science labs, performance studios, TV studios, and industry-supported construction and engineering workshops.


Challenge: When Preston College sought to create a modern classroom with a distinctive industrial look, they turned to Zentia for a ceiling solution that combined style, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.


Architects FWP Preston faced several design challenges. Preston College wanted a


modern classroom aesthetic with a bold, industrial, and edgy vibe that would also be cost-effective and delivered within tight lead times to ensure the college did not experience any disruption.


Solution: Zentia provided the perfect answer with its range of DecoMesh ceiling tiles, a wire-mesh solution that delivers an industrial aesthetic while offering durability and functionality. For this project, the college selected DecoMesh 600x600 tiles in Black R10 pattern. The R10 is a 10mm long diagonal and 5.8mm short diagonal design, creating a more open mesh pattern that enhances the space’s modern, stripped-back feel.


The DecoMesh tiles are crafted from galvanised steel, powder-coated and painted to prevent rust, ensuring longevity even in high-usage environments. Zentia supported the project by providing detailed specifications through telephone and email consultations, alongside product samples to help fine tune the final design.


The Oplia tile was also used in the communal spaces for its sleek aesthetic and smooth laminated finish. It also provides a good blend of acoustics, sound attenuation properties and brilliant sound absorption. Rated Class C in sound absorption, it still allows the right amount of noise to travel, proving effective for spaces where students meet and talk in groups.


The refurbished classroom at Preston College now embodies a sleek, industrial aesthetic that aligns with the institution’s forward-thinking approach to education. The DecoMesh tiles have added a contemporary edge to the space, creating an inspiring environment for learning.


22 Summer 2026 issue 4184


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