Primary & Secondary Education
Movable Acoustic Walls
for Schools
Flexible classroom partitions, operable walls for school halls and acoustic systems for primary and secondary education buildings across the UK.
Overview
How ModernGlide Systems Are Used in Schools
Schools require spaces that can be quickly adapted for different teaching activities throughout the day. Movable acoustic walls allow large school halls to be divided into separate teaching environments, examination spaces or activity areas — all without permanent building work. ModernGlide systems are designed to be operated easily by school staff and provide the acoustic separation needed for effective learning.
From primary schools dividing a shared hall into two classrooms, to secondary schools creating exam spaces from a sports hall, operable wall systems are widely used across the education sector. Our systems meet the acoustic requirements set out in Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) for educational buildings, ensuring that noise transfer between divided spaces is minimised.
School buildings are increasingly designed with flexible learning environments in mind. Architects and school planners specify movable wall systems to future-proof buildings, allowing spaces to be reconfigured as teaching methods, year group sizes and curriculum requirements change over time.
Typical Applications in Schools
Acoustic Standards
Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) Compliance
Educational buildings in England must comply with Building Bulletin 93 (BB93), which sets out acoustic performance requirements for different types of teaching spaces. ModernGlide movable acoustic wall systems are available with Rw ratings from 33 to 59 dB, allowing specifiers to select the correct system for each application.
Acoustic ratings explainedPanelHush Acoustic Systems
Acoustic Treatment for School Interiors
PanelHush acoustic panels and ceiling baffles are used in schools to reduce reverberation in classrooms, corridors and shared spaces. Made from 75% recycled PET fibre, they are a sustainable choice for new-build and refurbishment projects.
Recommended Products
Systems for Schools
MG100 – Movable Acoustic Wall
Top acoustic performance, Rw up to 59 dB
MG200 – Hinged Folding Partitions
Floor-supported hinged folding partition where ceiling structure is limited
MG100E – Fully Electric Movable Walls
Motorised operation ideal for staff use
MG400 – Sliding Wall Systems
Straight sliding walls and pocket door systems
BB93 Acoustic Compliance
Systems available to meet Building Bulletin 93 acoustic requirements for educational buildings.
Easy Staff Operation
Designed for non-specialist operation. School staff can reconfigure spaces in minutes without tools.
FIS Accredited Installer
ModernGlide is a FIS accredited installer, giving school business managers confidence in our work.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from architects, school business managers and contractors specifying movable walls for schools.
What movable wall systems are suitable for school halls?
The MG100 movable acoustic wall is the most widely specified system for school halls. It achieves Rw up to 59 dB, which meets the acoustic requirements of Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) for educational buildings. For schools where ceiling structure is limited, the MG200 floor-supported hinged folding partition is an alternative.
What is Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) and does it apply to movable walls?
Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) is the DfE guidance document that sets out acoustic performance standards for educational buildings in England. It specifies minimum sound reduction requirements for partitions between different types of teaching spaces. ModernGlide movable acoustic wall systems are available with Rw ratings from 33 to 59 dB, allowing specifiers to select the correct system for each BB93 requirement.
What Rw acoustic rating do I need for a school hall partition?
BB93 typically requires a minimum Rw of 40 to 45 dB for partitions between general teaching areas. For spaces adjacent to music rooms, drama studios or sports halls, a higher rating of Rw 50 to 59 dB is recommended. The MG100 at Rw 59 dB provides the maximum available acoustic separation.
Can school staff operate movable walls without specialist training?
Yes. ModernGlide movable wall systems are designed to be operated by non-specialist school staff. Panels are manually pushed along ceiling tracks and lock into position with a simple handle mechanism. No tools, keys or specialist training are required. Electric systems (MG100E) further simplify operation with push-button control.
How long does it take to divide a school hall with a movable wall?
A standard school hall movable wall can be fully deployed or retracted by one person in approximately 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the number of panels and the width of the opening. Electric systems can reduce this to under 2 minutes.
Are movable walls suitable for primary schools?
Yes. ModernGlide movable wall systems are installed in primary schools across the UK. They are particularly useful for dividing assembly halls into two classroom spaces, creating flexible learning environments that can be quickly reconfigured by teaching staff.
Can movable walls be used in sports halls?
Yes, but the specification requirements for sports halls are more demanding. Panels must be robust enough to withstand accidental impact from balls and equipment. ModernGlide can advise on appropriate systems and protective finishes for sports hall applications.
What is the maximum height and width for a school movable wall?
ModernGlide movable wall systems can be manufactured to suit almost any opening size. Maximum panel heights typically range from 3 to 6 metres depending on the system. Maximum opening widths are virtually unlimited as the track can span any distance. Structural ceiling loading must be confirmed at the design stage.
Do school movable walls require maintenance?
Yes. Like any mechanical system, movable walls benefit from periodic maintenance to ensure smooth operation and consistent acoustic performance. ModernGlide recommends an annual service inspection. A service contract can be arranged at the time of installation.
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