Now Next Future
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To improve classroom air quality, we can take immediate action, implement measures over the short and medium-term, and continue striving toward longer-term goals
Immediate Action
Many steps to improving air quality inside classrooms cost little or nothing, and some are perfect for involving students. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to meaningful change. Funding is urgent and necessary, but children and staff can not wait. Change must begin today.
1. Monitor Classroom Air Quality and Complete a Workplace Ventilation Audit
DfE guidance and statutory guidance include monitoring. Click the buttons below to read the guidance and more about ventilation.
As part of the workplace risk assessment, regularly monitor and record CO2 levels and air quality data in all areas, including classrooms and changing rooms. This data can be used to inform investment and policy updates.
2. Ventilate
DfE guidance and statutory guidance includes ventilation. Click the buttons to read the guidance and more about ventilation.
- Fully open windows and doors when the weather and noise allows, at least before the start of the day and during each break time.
- Increase natural air flow where possible (open vents). Lower temperatures and windier conditions will usually increase natural ventilation through openings. Partially opening windows and doors can still provide adequate ventilation.
- Open windows and doors on opposite sides of the room to allow air to flow through.
- Open high-level windows first to minimise cold drafts.
- Keep internal doors open where possible to promote through-flow while maintaining fire safety.
- Desk fans positioned next to an open window can be used to draw in fresh air from outside.
- Set a maximum occupancy for smaller rooms.
- Where mechanical ventilation is in place, ventilation should begin ahead of the working day, ending after it finishes.
- Train staff on balancing air quality with comfort.
3. Source control & behavioural methods
- Encourage children and staff to stay at home when unwell.
- Do not overcrowd classrooms.
- Avoid air fresheners and use unscented cleaning products; minimise the use of spray or aerosol cleaners and encourage fragrance-free toiletries.
- Place photocopiers and printers that produce particulates and VOC's outside the classroom.
- Declutter and damp wipe surfaces.
- Remove carpets and upholstered furnishings where possible.
- Vacuum cleaners can release and resuspend dust, which contains allergens, triggering symptoms. Use a high-filtration vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
- Dehumidifiers can help maintain indoor humidity between 40-60% inside classrooms, which is essential for preventing mould growth and dust mite reproduction
4. Immediate maintenance
- Check that windows function, and check doors and vents for blockages or damage. Check that air bricks are not obstructed.
- Clean or replace existing filters regularly.
5. Temporary room evacuation
Where CO2 levels consistently exceed the recommended levels, reduce the number of children in the room and improve ventilation.
From playgrounds to
corridors and classrooms,
every child deserves to breathe clean air in
the place that
shapes their future
Short-term
Actions
Install air filters
Install portable air filters where CO2 levels cannot be reliably maintained below 800ppm in naturally ventilated spaces
Learn more about air filtration.
Review policies and procedures
Create clear guidance on ventilation and filter use.
Develop regular cleaning, maintenance and monitoring protocols.
Education
Educate staff and pupils on pollution sources, indoor air quality and monitoring.
Empower children to assist education staff in the short-term.
Adaptation
Use outdoor learning or larger spaces if necessary and where air quality allows.
Medium-term Actions
Upgrade ventilation infrastructure and air quality monitoring
Install mechanical ventilation with heat recovery or upgrade existing systems.
Install an air quality monitor in each classroom, with the capability to link all devices to a centralised system. Display real-time air quality data on a single screen. Publicise data on the school's website.
Air quality surrounding schools
Support "school streets" or reduced traffic zones near entrances, and anti-idling.
Green infrastructure and outdoor spaces
Create outdoor learning areas for use when indoor air is poor.
Use green infrastructure such as hedges, green screens and plants.
Active Travel
Support walking buses, cycle buses, bike-to-school days and safe routes to school programmes.
Survey asbestos
If asbestos is present, the survey should be reviewed at least every 6-12 months.
Monitor Radon
Assess the average indoor concentration of Radon annually
Longer-term Actions
Design schools with air quality in mind
Build or retrofit schools to meet or exceed WHO air quality guidelines.
Policy and regulatory engagement
Work with education authorities to strengthen air quality standards.
Advocate for minimum IAQ metrics (max CO2, infection risk, pollutant levels).
Nationwide Air Quality Monitoring
Share air quality and CO2 monitor data publicly.
Inspire climate action
Support Zero Carbon Schools and similar programmes to reduce emissions and build awareness.