Pupils breathe healthier air thanks to Hertfordshire schools ventilation investment

The project, funded through the Sustainable Hertfordshire Central Fund, is helping to reduce children’s exposure to air pollution by installing HEPA air purifiers in classrooms. Priority has been given to schools in areas with poorer air quality and higher levels of deprivation, where the health impacts of pollution are often felt most.

A local primary school from East Hertfordshire is among 39 primary and SEND schools to receive air purifiers as part of the latest phase of the programme. To date, the project has positively impacted 12,510 children, with pupils now benefiting from improved air quality every school day.

By the end of this phase of delivery, more than 30,000 children across Hertfordshire will have access to healthier classroom air, supporting better learning environments and long‑term health outcomes.

Air pollution can affect children’s health, concentration, and attendance at school. While pollution cannot always be controlled outside, improving indoor air quality is a practical step that can be taken to reduce exposure where children spend a large part of their day.

The Hertfordshire Schools Ventilation Project builds on earlier success, with 62 schools previously receiving air purifiers in every classroom. As part of the programme, Hertfordshire County Council has also worked with academic researchers to support the development of the CHEPA (Classroom HEPA) Impact Calculator — a free online tool that helps schools and local authorities understand the potential air quality and energy impacts of using HEPA filters in classrooms.

Staff and pupils throughout the county have already noticed the benefits of the new technology, which is designed to run quietly in the background while continuously filtering classroom air.

A ten-year-old pupil shared their experience, saying:

“The air purifier is fabulous because getting like fresh air whilst we’re doing our learning, it’s just fantastic.”

Cllr Paul Zukowskyj, Executive Member for the Environment, Transport and Growth at Hertfordshire County Council, said:

“We know that air quality doesn’t just influence children’s health and wellbeing, it also plays a vital role in protecting our wider environment.

“By investing in these air purifiers, we’re improving the air that pupils breathe today while also supporting our commitment to creating more sustainable school environments.

“This is another example of how Hertfordshire is taking initiative to protect our communities.”

The council continues to work closely with schools to support healthier learning environments, helping children across Hertfordshire to learn, grow and thrive.