The Strategic Value of Digital Twins for Schools

The Strategic Value of Digital Twins for Schools: Unlocking Operational Efficiency, Enhancing Learning Environments, and Maximising Long-Term Value in Education Estates

As digital twin technology continues to advance, it presents a powerful tool for schools to optimise their operations and improve learning environments.

This white paper provides a detailed overview of the strategic benefits of digital twins for schools. It is specifically aimed at leadership teams in schools and academy trusts, facilities managers, and government bodies such as the Department for Education.

It explains how digital twins can improve facility management, tailor learning experiences, strengthen emergency preparedness, and promote energy efficiency in alignment with the UK’s educational and sustainability objectives.

Key findings include:

• Improved Facilities Management: Digital twins provide unprecedented visibility into building operations and maintenance needs, enabling schools to shift from reactive fixes to proactive asset management. This leads to cost savings and better learning environments.
• Enhanced Safety and Emergency Planning: Schools use digital twins to improve emergency preparedness. First responders armed with a school’s digital twin can respond more quickly and effectively in crises.
• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Digital twins help schools optimise energy use and support sustainability targets. Real-time monitoring and simulation of HVAC, lighting, and occupancy can lead to significant reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions.
• Strategic Alignment: These benefits support broader priorities, including cost efficiency, student well-being, and the UK’s net-zero commitments.

The paper also discusses challenges, including costs, data privacy, and change management and offers recommendations for stakeholders on adopting digital twin technology in a responsible, phased manner. Overall, while implementation requires planning and investment, digital twins have high strategic value for schools. They provide a data-driven foundation for safer, more innovative, and more sustainable educational environments, helping decision-makers anticipate problems and optimise outcomes in ways not previously possible.