Moving teams, working with the school
estates managers, should begin with a full inventory and audit review, tagging every important item so that nothing is lost in transit. A thorough audit should be conducted to give estate teams the breathing room to make informed decisions on space, move phases, and spending. That means cataloguing every relevant
desk, microscope or musical instrument, so managers know exactly what needs to move, be removed, stored, and what is coming back to the school ahead of term time. What a smooth transition requires Once you know what you have, and what needs to go where, estate managers and expert logistics partners should collaborate to follow this general outline: • Establish a time window: Define start to finish dates and agree on daily briefings; speak with all stakeholders, ensuring subcontractors are aware of live zones. • Collate packing materials: Allocate, for example, crates, cages or anti-static wraps; discuss whether specialist departments (e.g. science) should pack delicate items themselves. • Arrange accessible storage: Choose a facility close enough for sameday retrieval should the programme shift. This framework provides flexibility if unexpected challenges emerge,
particularly where RAAC removal or urgent maintenance and engineering upgrades are flagged later in the school year. Handling the tricky kit School relocations are rarely just about tables and chairs. High-value or fragile equipment demands bespoke solutions. For example, Sampson carts with folding shelves and zip-covers are useful for library collections, as they can keep books in their classification order, so they can roll straight back onto shelves or remain accessible from storage. The science department and music departments, too, feature glassware, woodwork or specialist equipment, which expert movers can provide packing materials for, including cages, crates, Busi bags and anti-static bubble wrap. Upholding circular economic principles Unwanted but serviceable assets shouldn’t become waste, and emptying forgotten storerooms into a skip is far from sustainable. A circular economic approach to removal should prioritise reusing first and recycling second, to cut down carbon emissions and lower project costs. Online auctions can remove unwanted assets that are still in good condition and recoup value. Partnerships with regional charities ensure redundant furniture and equipment find a second life, supporting social value and reducing disposal costs. Reaching out to regional charity partners
also works wonders. At BMG, we have an extensive network of charity partners to donate available items. When items really have reached end-
of-life, moving specialists can coordinate breaking them down into component materials (wood, metal, plastics), to maximise recycling rates and keep items out of landfill. Minimise disruption to maximise learning However well-planned, movement programmes still need to balance immediate needs with long-term estate planning. If work is urgent enough to happen during term time, weekends or out-of-hours windows can provide as little disruption to learning as possible. The summer holidays may only be a
few weeks, but with disciplined audits, transparent communication and sustainable asset lifecycle management, even the most complex refurbishment or relocation can finish on time and on budget. Estate managers who view logistics as a strategic asset and not an operational afterthought can enter the new academic year with classrooms that are well- equipped and aligned to teaching needs. That way, come September, pupils and teachers alike will walk into spaces that are refreshed, functional and up-to-scratch.
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