speaker-photo

Robert Gould

Partner, Barker Associates
Robert is a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and a Partner at Barker heading up their education sector. He works with academies, trusts and colleges to deliver capital projects and surveying services including condition surveying and estate planning. He also assists education clients in applying for capital funding and advises on energy efficiency strategies.
Hall 6

1 Series four

Flourishing environments: Analysing DfE’s school estate management standards

The DfE’s new standards embody a shift in the government’s approach to improving the condition, safety, suitability, and sustainability of school estates across England. This session will provide an expert analysis of the new guidance and the implications for school trusts. We’ll hear how trusts align standards with broader policy goals and funding expectations to create a successful and resilient estates strategy. Most importantly, we’ll translate policy into practice. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of what the new standards require, practical tools for assessing current compliance, and strategic advice on aligning estate management with educational outcomes, financial planning, and sustainability goals.

Operations

1 Breakout sessions: Series three

Inclusive by design: Creating environments where all learners thrive

This strategic panel discussion explores how trusts and partners are designing inclusive learning environments that support a wider range of learner needs across mainstream and specialist provision. The panel will translating inclusive design principles into effective spatial strategies, from sensory considerations and adaptability to whole-school planning and external environments, sharing the practical realities of translating ambition into delivery. You will gain practical insight into how to embed inclusive principles into estate strategy, capital planning and project delivery, while balancing long-term adaptability, operational needs and learner wellbeing. Ideal for COOs, heads of estates and directors of operations.