Scottish Government is consulting on updating the current Schools Premises Regulations to reflect modern educational needs. The proposals aim to modernise standards for school sites including internal space, outdoor areas, digital infrastructure, and sanitary facilities. While some regulations will apply to the existing schools’ estate, others will target new or substantially refurbished schools. Replacing the outdated 1967 regulations will ensure schools are suitable for modern, 2-18 education and will support health and wellbeing and safety.

Key areas of focus:

• Outdoor spaces: Reviewing regulations for school grounds to ensure they are nature-rich and suitable for learning and play.
• Sanitary accommodation: Addressing requirements for toilet facilities, with debates around the provision of single-sex spaces.
• Technical standards: Updating requirements for ventilation, lighting, and heating.

The updated regulations are expected to apply to new builds and major refurbishments rather than requiring immediate changes to all existing buildings.

Read the 'Proposals to update the School Premises Regulations' on the Scottish Government consultations website.