Why Does Your Classroom Sound So Loud? The Power of Acoustics in Education

Walk into almost any busy classroom, and you’ll be met with a familiar wall of sound: chatter, scraping chairs, echoing voices, and humming air vents. But did you know that poor classroom acoustics can significantly impact how well students learn?

Classroom noise levels often reach 65–75 decibels, roughly the same as standing next to a busy road, far higher than the 35 dB limit recommended for learning spaces. At ISS Acoustic & Interiors, we help schools across the UK create quieter, calmer spaces that enhance communication and concentration. Here’s why acoustics matter, and how the right design can transform your learning environment.

Why Are Classrooms So Loud?

Classrooms are often designed with hard, reflective surfaces like plaster walls, tiled floors, and large windows. These materials bounce sound around, causing echo and reverberation that distort speech.

Common sources of classroom noise include:

• Air-conditioning and ventilation systems

• Movement and chatter within the room

• Noise from corridors, playgrounds, and nearby roads

When these sounds overlap, both students and teachers struggle to focus, increasing stress and reducing comprehension.

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How Noise Affects Learning and Behaviour

Noise isn’t just distracting, it directly affects learning outcomes. Poor acoustics can lead to:

• Reduced speech intelligibility and understanding

• Lower attention spans and academic performance

• Increased fatigue for teachers and students alike

Teachers in noisy classrooms are also more prone to vocal strain from constantly raising their voices. Improving acoustics doesn’t just help pupils, it supports staff wellbeing, too.

The Science Behind Classroom Acoustics

Two key factors determine how a classroom sounds:

1. Background Noise: External and internal sounds that mask speech.

2. Reverberation: The lingering of sound after it’s made, which blurs clarity.

The UK’s BB93: Acoustic Design of Schools sets strict standards to control both. It specifies maximum noise levels and reverberation times for classrooms, halls, and breakout spaces, ensuring environments that support clear communication and effective teaching.

At ISS Acoustic & Interiors, all our school projects are designed to meet or exceed BB93 compliance.

Why Good Acoustics Matter in Education

Clear sound is fundamental to learning. Children need to hear and process every word to follow instructions, engage in discussion, and absorb information.
For students with hearing impairments, autism, or speech and language difficulties, a noisy environment can make participation extremely challenging.

Good acoustics support inclusive learning, improving access and engagement for every student.

Top Tips for Choosing Acoustic Products for Schools

When planning classroom acoustic treatment, it’s important to choose materials that balance performance, durability, and aesthetics.

Here are our expert tips:

• Think durability: Choose stain-resistant, easy-to-clean panels for high-traffic areas.

• Go for high absorption: Use panels that meet BB93 targets without exceeding your budget.

• Prioritise safety: Always ensure products meet UK fire-safety standards.

• Choose impact-resistant panels: For sports halls or gymnasiums, use robust options like Ecophon Super G that can withstand wear and tear.

How to Improve Classroom Acoustics

Practical, cost-effective improvements include:

1. Installing acoustic wall panels or ceiling rafts to reduce echo.

2. Adding soft furnishings such as carpets, curtains, or pinboards.

3. Rearranging furniture to break up reflective surfaces.

4. Turning off noisy equipment when not in use.

5. Consulting an acoustic specialist for a professional assessment.

ISS Acoustic & Interiors provides free acoustic surveys and tailored proposals to help schools achieve optimal sound conditions.

• How Much Does Classroom Acoustic Treatment Cost?

  Costs vary depending on room size, materials, and performance requirements. ISS Acoustic & Interiors works closely with each client to deliver cost-effective, BB93-compliant solutions.

  
  Most classroom installations are completed within one to two days, often during holidays or after hours to avoid disrupting lessons.

• Do acoustic panels look good?

  Today’s acoustic products come in a wide variety of colours, shapes, and finishes, even with printed graphics or educational designs boasting a stylish end product unlike acoustic panels 20 years ago.

  
  ISS can integrate panels seamlessly into your classroom aesthetic, turning functional sound control into part of your interior design.

• What is the ideal noise level for classrooms?

  The recommended background noise level is around 35 dB to ensure speech clarity and concentration.

• Do better acoustics really improve learning?

  Yes , studies show that improved acoustics lead to better understanding, engagement, and comfort for both students and teachers.

• Are acoustic panels permanent?

  No. Many systems are modular and can be updated or reconfigured as your school evolves.

How ISS Acoustic & Interiors Can Help

At ISS Acoustic & Interiors, we specialise in transforming noisy classrooms into calm, focused learning spaces. Our expert team designs and installs:

• Sound-absorbing wall panels

• Ceiling rafts and baffles

• Custom acoustic solutions to meet BB93 standards

We create environments where students learn better and teachers teach more comfortably.

Contact Us today to arrange a Free Consultation or discuss how we can improve the sound of your school.