LED lighting has a lifespan – typically around 10 years. After that, brightness fades and failures increase.
Read how we helped BMAT school, Little Parndon Primary Academy, transform their outdated LED lighting into a bright, welcoming space.
Little Parndon Primary Academy is part of BMAT, a multi-academy trust based in Harlow. The school serves a vibrant community and prides itself on creating a positive learning environment for its pupils
342 lights updated
Estimated £3796 saved per annum
BMAT believed they had completed all their LED lighting upgrades years ago. But when Clare Tyler, Director of Estates at BMAT, joined the trust, she quickly realised that older LED fittings were reaching the end of their lifespan.
At Little Parndon, the lighting had become dim and yellow, making classrooms feel gloomy, and soon lighting panels were blowing across the school. Over 80 panels had failed completely, leaving the school in urgent need of attention.
This was a wake-up call: LED lighting doesn’t last forever, and schools need to plan for replacements as part of their long-term capital strategy.
Looking for a solution, BMAT contacted the Department for Education’s “Get Help Buying for Schools” service, and they recommended LASER’s LED lighting framework. BMAT had already seen our work on a previous DfE decarbonisation pilot project with another primary school, Roydon Primary Academy, which helped Little Parndon feel confident in reaching out.
We guided BMAT through the process. From completing initial forms to arranging a thorough site survey, making everything straightforward. We also handled the procurement, ensuring compliance with BMAT’s financial regulations and securing best value through competitive tendering.
Using our compliant framework, we appointed a trusted, approved contractor to replace the failing panels with modern, energy-efficient LED lighting. The installation was planned during the school holidays to minimise disruption to staff, students and was completed smoothly.
The transformation was immediate. Classrooms and corridors are now bright and welcoming, creating a better environment for pupils and staff. Feedback from the school community has been overwhelmingly positive, especially as the darker evenings set in.
BMAT also gained a valuable lesson: even LED lighting needs a refresh after a decade. Planning for lifecycle replacements is key to maintaining safe, inspiring spaces for learning.
LED lighting has a lifespan – typically around 10 years. After that, brightness fades and failures increase.
Don’t assume an LED upgrade is permanent. Check installation dates and plan for replacements in your capital strategy.
Poor lighting impacts learning environments and staff morale.
Our DfE approved LED Lighting framework makes procurement simple, compliant, and cost-effective.
Our education team is on hand to help you bring your LED lighting project to life. Contact us at educationteam@laserenergy.org.uk.
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Read how we helped BMAT school, Little Parndon Primary Academy, transform their outdated LED lighting into a bright, welcoming space.