The school holidays offer a valuable window to step back, look at your estate and plan ahead. With quieter corridors and reduced day to day pressures, it becomes much easier to spot issues, review priorities and understand what your buildings may need in the months and years ahead.

A structured approach can help you make the most of this time. Here are some simple steps to guide your assessment.

1. Start with a walkaround of your site

Take a fresh look at the condition of your buildings. Because the site is calmer, you may notice things that are not always obvious during term time. Look out for items such as:

• Roof condition, slipped tiles and blocked gutters
  • Signs of damp, leaks or water staining
  • Wear and tear to windows and doors
  • Condition of fire doors
  • Any health and safety concerns that are easier to spot in empty spaces

Make notes or take photos so you can build a clear picture of priorities.

2. Review your compliance and statutory checks

Holidays are a good time to check that key documentation is up to date. This may include:

• Asbestos management plans
  • Fire risk assessments
  • Gas and electrical certificates
  • Servicing records

If anything is due for renewal or review, try to schedule this before pupils return.

3. Speak to your site team

Your caretakers and site staff often spot emerging issues first. Use the quieter period to gather their feedback. Ask about recurring problems, areas they believe need investment and any repairs they have carried out recently.

This insight is often incredibly useful when planning future works.

4. Consider long term planning needs

A holiday review is not only about immediate repairs. It is also a chance to consider your wider estate vision. Ask yourself:

• Are teaching spaces fit for purpose
  • Are there areas where energy efficiency could be improved
  • Do you need to plan ahead for future Condition Improvement Funding bids
  • Are there buildings nearing end of life that may require larger projects

Having a clear sense of your longer term goals makes funding applications and budget planning much more effective.

5. Capture everything in a simple summary

Once you have gathered all information, create an overview of:

• Urgent priorities
  • Medium term needs
  • Longer term strategic improvements

This helps leaders, governors and trusts understand where focus is needed and supports better decision making for the new term.

How AltMarkt can support you

If you would like help reviewing your estate, preparing for future funding rounds or developing a clear plan for your school buildings, our team is here to support you. Get in touch to discuss how we can help you start the new year with confidence.