Annual classroom damage costs UK teachers nearly £3,000 on average, with incidents of damage becoming more frequent, according to a recent study. The survey, conducted among 500 secondary school educators, revealed the consequences of both accidental and deliberate student mishaps. Teachers reported an annual average of six chairs, five desks, and four whiteboards being damaged in their classrooms, contributing to the substantial bill.
The findings indicate that three windows and three doors are smashed each year in a typical school, with five computers and laptops requiring replacement or repair. While 67% of teachers stated that the harm caused is usually unintentional, 58% have observed intentional destruction by students. A spokesperson from computer manufacturer ASUS, who commissioned the study, highlighted the financial impact on schools from such incidents.
The survey also found that most teachers believe students’ behaviour has worsened over time, with nearly half noting an increase in school item damage. Damage predominantly occurs in classrooms (75%), followed by toilets (54%) and hallways (36%). A significant 39% of teachers expressed the need for more durable technology, as 32% felt that current equipment falls short.
Moreover, 46% of respondents stressed the importance of school technology being rugged and durable. Surprisingly, 9% reported school closures due to malfunctioning equipment in the past year. Nearly four in 10 teachers have personally covered repair costs for school items, spending over £155 on average.
The spokesperson from ASUS emphasised the financial strain repairs impose on educational institutions, affecting the quality of education and available resources. They underscored the significance of having resilient devices that can withstand the demands of school life, offering ruggedised laptops as a cost-effective solution amidst budget constraints.
With increasing instances of classroom damage, teachers and authorities are urged to prioritise durable technology and implement measures to curb both accidental and deliberate harm to school equipment, ensuring a conducive learning environment for students.