Whether it’s outdated projectors, unreliable interactive whiteboards, or poor sound systems in assembly halls, old AV gear can disrupt teaching, frustrate staff, and negatively impact student engagement.
So how do you know when it’s time for an upgrade? At Virtue KPMS, we’ve helped hundreds of schools across the UK transition to modern, reliable AV solutions that enhance both learning and teaching. In this post, we’ll explore the key signs your school’s AV equipment is due for a refresh — and how we can help guide the process from start to finish.
Why AV Matters in Education
Before we talk upgrades, it’s worth reflecting on why AV technology is so critical in schools:
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Boosts student engagement through visual, auditory, and interactive learning
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Supports differentiated learning for pupils with SEN or EAL
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Enables hybrid and remote learning through lecture capture and streaming
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Saves time by making lessons easier to plan and deliver
When your AV equipment isn’t working as it should, all of these benefits are compromised.
7 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your School AV Equipment
1. Frequent Technical Failures
If your staff are constantly reporting frozen screens, sound glitches or broken remotes, it’s a clear sign the system is outdated or not fit for purpose. Frequent malfunctions lead to lost teaching time and rising maintenance costs.
2. Outdated Technology That No Longer Integrates
Older interactive whiteboards or projectors may not be compatible with modern operating systems, wireless devices, or learning platforms. This limits lesson flexibility and frustrates teachers.
3. Poor Audio or Visual Quality
Crackling microphones, low-resolution displays, or dim projectors can make it hard for students — especially those with hearing or vision needs — to stay focused and engaged.
4. No Support for Hybrid or Flipped Learning
Can your current system support remote students, lesson recording or video playback? If not, your school risks falling behind in the digital learning age.
5. Inflexible or Non-Interactive Displays
Teachers need flexible tools to deliver dynamic, student-led lessons. If your displays aren’t interactive, touch-enabled, or user-friendly, it’s time to explore new options.
6. Rising Repair and Maintenance Costs
If you’re repeatedly fixing the same equipment, investing in a new system may be more cost-effective long-term — especially with more energy-efficient technology available.
7. Staff Frustration and Low Adoption
Teachers are less likely to use AV tools if they’re unreliable, overly complex or poorly supported. Upgrading can improve morale, efficiency, and lesson quality.
When Is the Best Time to Upgrade?
The best time to upgrade school AV equipment is during school holidays, especially summer or half-term breaks, when there’s minimal disruption to teaching. Planning early gives your SLT time to:
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Review classroom needs
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Secure budget approvals
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Work with a trusted installer like KPMS
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Train staff on new systems
Need support with funding options? We can help advise on how to allocate capital budgets, SEND provision funding, or MAT grants to support your AV upgrade.
How KPMS Supports AV Upgrades in UK Schools
At KPMS, we offer a full-service approach to AV upgrades:
✅ Free site surveys and expert consultation
✅ Tailored system design for classrooms, halls and hybrid setups
✅ Supply and professional installation of top-quality AV equipment
✅ Ongoing training and aftercare
✅ Reliable Classroom Control Systems for seamless operation
We’ve worked with primary schools, secondary schools, academies and multi-academy trusts across the UK — delivering everything from single-screen installations to full school-wide AV solutions.
Ready to Upgrade Your School’s AV Equipment?
If you’ve noticed the signs above, it’s likely time to explore your AV upgrade options. At KPMS, we make the process easy, cost-effective, and fully tailored to your school’s needs.
Contact us on 01924 423111 for a no-obligation consultation
Explore our full range of services at www.kpms.co.uk
Or email our team to discuss your AV upgrade plans at info@kpms.co.uk
