Warneford Consulting at Education Estates Conference: Fabric First?
On Wednesday 15 October (14:45–15:30), Warneford Consulting will play a leading role in the discussion at the Education Estates Conference in Manchester, as Managing Director Tim Warneford takes the chair for a panel on one of the most hotly debated topics in school estates strategy: Fabric First?
The session will ask a simple but vital question: does adopting a “fabric first” approach—prioritising the energy efficiency of a building’s envelope before investing in systems or technology—deliver dividends worthy of being considered best practice?
Some see fabric first as a sacred cow, essential for driving long-term efficiency, resilience, and carbon reduction across the education estate. Others argue that its universality is overstated and that different contexts demand different approaches. This session will explore both sides of the debate.
A distinguished panel
Tim Warneford will be joined by an impressive line-up of sector experts:
- Andrew Dutton, Sector Leader, Education – Arcadis
- Mike McGill, Director of Building Performance – G&H Group
- Chris Newman, Zero Carbon Design Manager – Mitsubishi Electric
- James Smurthwaite, Partner – Warneford Consulting
Together, they will share insights, experiences, and case studies to help schools and trusts understand when and how a fabric first approach can unlock best value, and when alternative strategies may be more effective.
Why it matters
At a time when schools are grappling with rising energy costs, ageing estates, and ambitious decarbonisation targets, the decisions made today about estate strategy will shape outcomes for decades. This session is designed to give school leaders, estates teams, and trust boards the clarity they need to make confident, evidence-based choices.
Join the conversation
If you’re attending Education Estates 2025, don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Tim, James, and the panel as they unpack this important topic.
📅 When: Wednesday 15 October · 14:45–15:30
📍 Where: Refurbishment, Reuse & Adaptation Stage – Education Estates Conference, Manchester
You can view the full programme and register to attend here.
