Schools, colleges, and universities attending the Education Forum are under growing pressure to make every square metre of their estates work harder. Sports halls that once served a single purpose (PE lessons or after-school clubs) are now expected to operate as multi-use performance centres, supporting physical education, community hire, exams, assemblies, and even events…
For estates managers, this shift demands a smarter approach to specifying, sourcing, and maintaining sports equipment that is both flexible and durable.
Specifying for Flexibility
The first step is to ensure equipment can adapt to varied uses. Wall-mounted or ceiling-hinged goals allow quick transitions from basketball to five-a-side football without cluttering the hall. Retractable seating systems enable spaces to switch between sports practice and spectator events.
Flooring and markings also require careful consideration. Some schools are now opting for multi-sport line markings with non-slip finishes, while high-performance centres invest in modular surfaces that can be swapped out for specific sports or non-sporting use.
Acoustics and Safety
Multi-use spaces often suffer from poor acoustics, particularly when moving from sport to performance settings. The use of acoustic wall and ceiling panels improves sound quality for assemblies and events while reducing noise distraction during PE lessons.
Safety must remain paramount. Equipment should comply with BS EN safety standards and be installed by accredited suppliers. Regular inspection cycles, covering retractable systems, goal anchors, and wall padding, are critical to minimise risk and extend asset life.
Storage Solutions
A common pain point is storage. Multi-use halls require a wide variety of equipment, from mats and nets to staging and AV kit. Without careful planning, this can lead to cluttered, unsafe environments.
Best practice is to design in dedicated storage rooms or integrated wall units during refurbishment or new-build projects. Mobile trolleys and compact racks also help staff move equipment quickly between activities while maintaining clear floor space.
Balancing Cost and Durability
Budget constraints remain a reality across education. Facilities managers must balance upfront cost with long-term value, ensuring products are robust enough to withstand daily use. Framework agreements and supplier partnerships can support value-for-money procurement, while lifecycle costing models help justify investment in higher-quality, longer-lasting equipment.
Future-Ready Spaces
The most successful institutions are those treating sports hall procurement as a strategic investment in versatility. By specifying flexible equipment, addressing acoustics and safety, and planning for storage, schools and universities can transform traditional PE halls into performance-ready spaces that support both curriculum and community.
In an era of tight budgets and high expectations, well-planned procurement ensures facilities remain fit for purpose: today and for years to come.
Are you searching for Sports Equipment & Facilities for your institution? The Education Forum can help!
Photo by Jorgen Hendriksen on Unsplash
