Durants School in Enfield is a special school catering for pupils with autism from 11 to 19 years of age. The school has undergone a transformation in recent years, and in conjunction with Enfield council, has developed into a secondary provision for pupils with autism in the Borough. However, one area remained problematic – The poor acoustics in the sports hall was seriously affecting both the pupils and staff using the space.
Deciding something had to be done, Eddi Banks, of Durants School, contacted acoustic specialists Sound Reduction Systems (SRS) to discuss what might be done in such an area to improve the situation. SRS were able to advise Eddi that a treatment using their Class A rated Sonata acoustic absorbers would be the solution and were able to point to previous successful projects at Charlton School, St Nicholas School and the Albany Centre – All catering for children with autism and special needs.
SRS sent a technical representative to visit site to measure up and plan where the panels could be installed to aid noise reduction. However, it soon became apparent that the old, damaged ceiling in the sports hall would need completely replacing and decorating before any acoustic materials could be installed. The SRS installation team were only too happy to take on this project as well, and their skills from previous employment as builders and decorators meant that they were perfectly suited to complete the whole project. SRS Director, Alex Docherty commented:
“It was clear that the school really needed the acoustic treatment to improve the learning environment for the pupils and the staff at Durants School. It was a surprise to learn that the whole ceiling needed replacing, but we are lucky enough to have a highly skilled team of installers who can manage any problem they come across.”
In total, 30No. 1200 x 1200mm suspended Sonata Vario panels were specified and installed beneath the new, decorated ceiling and the results have been fantastic. School Business Manager, Karly Barker, commented:
“We are all so pleased with how fab the ceiling looks! Such a huge difference and the sound reduction has been very effective and noticeable during lessons. The fitters were very professional, punctual and adhered to our requests with particular attention to the health and safety of our pupils and staff alike. We would definitely recommend your company to other organisations.”
SRS are specialists in school acoustics and offer free advice and site visits and quotes to any school with sound absorption problems. You can read project profiles and testimonials from satisfied schools on the website. If your school has a noise problem, please get in touch on 01204 380074, email info@soundreduction.co.uk or visit the website www.soundreduction.co.uk
