Are you in the process of planning a new nursery, school or college washroom? Considering the right quantity of toilets to include in your planning?
Our school washroom guide is here to support you in the creation of your initial washroom plans – to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the fundamentals of your washroom design, with your students’ and staff’s wellbeing and comfort in mind.
From nursery and pre-school settings to primary schools, colleges and high schools, the optimum number of toilets you will need is based upon multiple factors, such as the number of students at your school, gender distribution and government recommendations. By understanding and following these guidelines, you can prevent over-crowding, and promote a comfortable, safe, accessible and hygienic washroom environment for your students and staff.
This school washroom guide explores government recommendations and discusses the importance of accessibility and privacy, and the impact of a positive washroom experience on student health and academic performance. With this insight, you can progress with your school toilet design and build with confidence that you’re meeting the specific requirements of your school setting – ensuring a positive washroom experience for all.
The importance of identifying the ideal number of toilets for your school
Providing adequate toilet and, in secondary school and college settings, changing facilities is a crucial aspect of ensuring the comfort, health and mental wellbeing of students. The number of washroom facilities can significantly impact your students’ learning environment and experience. When faced with a toilet shortage, students may experience long queues, compromised privacy and unhygienic conditions, which can lead to many issues.
Inadequate toilet facilities can cause disruptions to the learning process, with students having to leave the classroom frequently to use the bathroom due to not being able to access these facilities in allotted free times throughout the day. In some cases, you may also find an increase in absenteeism if students begin to avoid school due to the inconvenience and discomfort of using the available toilets – or the consequences of having to use the toilets in learning time.
Attendance can also be further impacted by the increased spread of illness and infections due to unhygienic washroom facilities.
Having the correct number of well-designed and well-maintained toilet and changing facilities can support a positive learning environment. Access to clean, private and positive toilet facilities are more likely to feel comfortable, confident and focused during their school day. By prioritising these facilities, schools are demonstrating their commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and nurturing space for all students. This, in turn, can contribute to positive academic performance, attendance and student satisfaction.
Important factors to consider when determining the number of toilets your school needs
When deciding on the ideal number of toilets for your school, there are several factors you will need to consider:
- Total number of students enrolled at your school. This information is pivotal, as the recommended toilet-to-student ratio is based on the total student population.
- Gender distribution. The gender distribution within your student body is an important consideration – to ensure you have an appropriate number of toilets for both male and female students, taking into account any specific needs or preferences.
- Age and developmental stages of your students. Being aware of and accounting for your student’s age is an important factor – the requirements and ratios differ depending on age and stage of development, with younger children requiring greater access to toilet facilities than older children.
- Layout and design of the school building. The location and accessibility of the toilet and changing facilities are crucial factors. Toilets should be conveniently located and easily accessible for allstudents, minimising the time and effort required to reach them. The traffic flow and movement patterns within the school should be taken into account to ensure the placement of the toilets is optimised for efficient use.
- Utilities availability. The availability of water and sewage infrastructure are important to consider.
- Accessibility/special needs. Ensuring an inclusive environment for all students is a hugely important consideration across all school touchpoints, including washrooms. For students with disabilities or mobility challenges, it is crucial that their access to washrooms is considered.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can ensure that you provide the appropriate number of toilets to meet the needs of your student population.
Legal requirements for school toilets in the United Kingdom
When it comes to the provision of toilets in schools, there are specific legal requirements and guidelines that must be adhered to. These regulations are typically set by national and regional educational authorities and are designed to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of students.
Referring to the Area Guidelines for Mainstream Schools, Building Bulleting 103 as set out by the Department of Education, the following recommendations have been set for mainstream schools across the UK.
The total area of toilet and personal care facilities must include:
- Approximately one toilet for every 20 pupils in total
- One for every ten full-time equivalent pupils aged two to four, including reception and nursery places
- Separate toilets for staff: at least one toilet with wash hand basin plus one for every 25 full-time equivalent members of staff (not including catering staff), rounded up
- Accessible toilets for disabled pupils, staff or visitors (which may also count towards the number of staff toilets above)
- In secondary schools and colleges (schools with pupils in Year 7 and above), changing rooms with showers, near to indoor and outdoor sports provision
And should also include:
- Changing facilities for staff, which may also offer accessible changing facilities
- A specialist hygiene room with fixed or mobile hoist and space for assistants to change a pupil. In a primary school, this should contain a changing bed and accessible WC unless this is included in an adjacent accessible toilet (9m2). In a secondary school this should contain an accessible shower, sluice toilet and a changing trolley (12m2).
Beyond the numerical requirements, there are also regulations regarding the design, materials, and maintenance of school toilets. These standards ensure that the facilities are hygienic, well-ventilated, and easy to clean. Schools must also comply with local building codes and environmental regulations, such as those related to water usage and waste disposal. By adhering to these legal requirements, schools can create a safe and comfortable environment for their students.
Design considerations for school toilets
The design of school toilets plays a crucial role in ensuring the comfort, safety, and accessibility of these facilities for students. When planning and designing school toilets, there are several important factors to consider.
One key aspect, is the size and layout of the toilet cubicles. Cubicles should be large enough to accommodate students of different ages and sizes, with enough space for them to move around comfortably. The doors should provide adequate privacy and be easy to open and close. Additionally, the placement of sinks, soap dispensers and hand dryers should be strategically positioned to promote efficient use and prevent overcrowding.
Accessibility is another important design consideration. Schools must ensure that an adequate portion of their toilet facilities are designed to accommodate students with disabilities or special needs. This may include accessible features such as wider cubicles, grab bars, adjustable fixtures and enough space for wheelchair manoeuvring. These accessible toilet facilities should be clearly marked and easily identifiable to ensure that all students can use the facilities with dignity and comfort.
The materials and finishes used in the construction of school washrooms are also important to consider. Durable, easy-t-clean, hygienic surfaces such as tiles or seamless flooring can help to maintain a hygienic environment with reduced maintenance requirements, and therefore, staff time. The use of vandal-resistant fixtures and fittings can also help to prevent damage and ensure long-term use and efficiency of the facility. Appropriate ventilation and lighting are also essential to create a pleasant and well-maintained environment.
The placement and visibility of your school toilet facilities can impact their use and staff supervision. Toilets should be located in areas with high foot traffic and near common areas such as classrooms or cafeterias, to ensure they are easily accessible and monitored regularly. This helps to prevent misuse, vandalism and antisocial behaviour – to promote student safety and security.
Gender-inclusive school toilets
The importance of providing gender-inclusive school toilet facilities has gained increased focus in recent years. The approach of gender-inclusive toilets aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for students of all gender identities and expressions.
Traditionally, school toilets have been divided into male and female facilities. This binary approach can be limiting and may not adequately address the needs of students who identify as non-binary, transgender or gender non-conforming. Gender-inclusive toilets offer a solution by providing a safe and comfortable option for all students, regardless of their gender identity.
A popular approach to gender-inclusive toilets in schools is the installation of individual, self-contained toilet cubicles, commonly known as ‘superloos’. These cubicles offer complete privacy and are accessible to students of any gender identity. Additionally, some schools choose to create multi-cubicle, gender-neutral toilet facilities, where all students use can the same space. These designs prioritise inclusivity and respect the diverse gender identities within school communities.
Alongside the physical design of gender-inclusive toilets, schools must consider the policies and procedures surrounding their use. Clear internal and external communication surrounding the purpose and importance of gender-inclusive toilets can help to foster a culture of inclusivity, understanding and acceptance within the wider school community.
Prioritising gender-inclusive toilets in schools can promote a sense of belonging and safety for LGBTQ+ students, reduce bullying and harassment within the school community and contribute to a more inclusive learning environment.
School toilet maintenance and hygiene
Maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of school toilets is crucial both to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of students, and to optimise the longevity of school toilet facilities. Effective cleaning and maintenance contribute to a pleasant and comfortable environment, as well as helping to prevent the spread of illnesses and infections.
Establishing a regular cleaning schedule allows for this practice to be integrated into the ongoing operational aspects of the school. This schedule should be tailored to the specific needs and usage patterns of the school – taking into consideration factors such as:
- Number of students
- Frequency of toilet use
- Special events or activities that may impact the facilities
Cleaning should be performed at least once daily, if not more. The cleaning process should involve thorough disinfection of all surfaces, including toilet bowls, sinks and floors. Appropriate cleaning products and tools such as disinfectant solutions, mops, and brushes should be used to effectively and efficiently remove dirt, grime and any potential contaminants. Particular attention should be paid to high-touch areas such as doors handles and flush mechanisms.
Robust maintenance practices should be implemented to address any issues or repairs efficiently to minimise impact on students and staff. This may include leaks, identifying and replacing broken fixtures and ensuring that all plumbing and ventilation systems are functioning optimally. Prompt attention to maintenance needs can help prevent the development of more significant issues such as mould or water damage which can compromise the hygiene and safety of the toilet facilities.
Schools should also consider providing adequate consumable such as soap, paper towels and toilet paper, to ensure students can maintain optimal hygiene practices while using the facilities.
Effective communication and education are also crucial for promoting good hygiene practices among the student body. Signage, posters and internal campaigns to encourage proper hand washing, flushing and waste disposal can be used to help support your students in looking after themselves. By fostering a culture of cleanliness and responsibility, schools can not only empower students to take an active role in maintaining the overall health and wellbeing of the school environment, they can also teach their student core life skills that will serve them for years to come.
Case studies of successful school toilet planning
Let’s explore a couple of case studies of schools that have successfully implemented washroom strategies to meet the needs of their student population.
Large urban secondary school
The problem: Overcrowding and poorly maintained school washroom facilities
The approach: After conducting a thorough assessment of the school’s population and infrastructure, they developed a comprehensive plan to renovate and expand the existing toilet facilities. This included increasing the number of toilets, upgrading the fixtures and finishes and improving the overall layout and accessibility of the spaces.
The result: The new toilet facilities were well received by the student, who reported feeling more comfortable and confident using the facilities. Attendance rates improved, as students no longer had to spend excessive time waiting in line or dealing with unsanitary conditions. Additionally, the school saw a reduction in reported instances of bullying and vandalism, as the improved facilities fostered a greater sense of ownership and respect amongst students.
Rural junior school
The problem: Inadequate toilet facilities for a growing student population
The approach: The school’s leadership identified the important of ensuring that all students had easy access to clean and private toilets. They worked closely with local authorities and design experts to develop a plan that not only met the recommended toilet-to-student ratios but also incorporated features to address the specific needs of younger students. This included the installation of smaller-scale fixtures, the creation of designated toilet areas for different grade levels and the implementation of a comprehensive cleaning and maintenance programme. The school also incorporated educational initiatives to teach students about proper hygiene and the importance of respecting the shared toilet facilities.
The result: The school’s toilet facilities became a source of pride for the entire school community, contributing to a more positive and supportive learning environment.
These case studies demonstrate the tangible benefits that can be achieved when schools prioritise the planning and design of their toilet facilities. By addressing the unique needs of their student populations and following best practices, these schools have created spaced that promote health, safety and a sense of community within their respective schools.
Resources and tools to help determine the ideal number of school toilets
Determining the ideal number of toilets for a school can be a complex task, but there are various resources and tools available to assist school administrators and facility managers in this process.
One valuable resource is the guidance and recommendations provided by educational authorities and organisation. Many national and regional education departments have developed guidelines and standards for the provision of toilet facilities in schools. These guidelines often include specific ratios of toilets to students, as well as recommendations for the design and accessibility of the facilities. By referencing these authoritative sources, schools can ensure that they are meeting the necessary legal and regulatory requirements.
In addition to these official guidelines, there are also a number of online tools and calculators that can help schools determine the appropriate number of toilets for their specific needs. These tools often take into account factors such as the total student population, gender distribution, and recommended ratios to provide a customised estimate of the required number of toilets. Some of these tools also offer suggestions for the layout and design to optimise accessibility and traffic flow.
Additionally, the expertise of architects, designers and facilities managers can also be extremely helpful in the initial design stage of a school washroom project, and washroom experts such as Interfix Washrooms have extensive experience and expertise in the design and operational logistics of a school washroom project and can assist at all stages of the project development. These experts can provide valuable insights and guidance based on their experience in planning and designing school toilet facilities. They can help schools navigate the various considerations, such as building regulations, accessibility requirements and maintenance best practices to ensure the final toilet facilities meet the needs of the school community.
By leveraging these resources and tools, schools can make well-informed decisions that prioritise the comfort, health and wellbeing of their students. This, in turn, can contribute to a more positive and supportive learning environment for all.
Here at Interfix Washrooms, we have extensive experience in supporting nursery schools, primary schools, secondary schools, colleges and universities in the design and installation of their education toilet, changing and shower facilities.
Our team of experts is here to help schools of all sizes in determining their school toilet requirements – from the number of toilets required, to the best washroom layout, choice of materials, aesthetic design and ongoing maintenance.
If you have a school washroom project you would like to discuss, get in touch with our team, or explore our portfolio of completed washroom projects to see how we have worked with and supported schools across the UK.
