February Half Term Is Almost Here – Already! Time to Get Organised
Can you believe how quickly February half term is coming around? It feels like the Christmas break was only just behind us, yet here we are already planning for the next opportunity to get essential works scheduled and completed.
At FPM Facility Services, we know that half term closures are one of the most valuable windows in the academic calendar. A short break can make a big difference when it comes to maintaining, improving and future-proofing your buildings – but only if the planning starts early.
If February half term is already on your radar, now is the time to get organised.
Why February half term matters for facilities planning
With fewer people on site, February half term provides the ideal environment to carry out works safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption. Planned maintenance, repairs and improvement projects can all be completed without impacting day-to-day operations.
Delaying works can often lead to:
- Small issues escalating into larger, more costly problems
- Disruption during teaching time
- Increased pressure later in the year
- Compliance and safety risks
Using the half term break wisely helps you stay in control of your site.
Top things to get in order during the half term closure
If you’re reviewing priorities, here are some of the most effective works to schedule during February half term:
- Planned maintenance and reactive repairs
Half term is ideal for addressing those outstanding jobs that are difficult to manage during a busy term, including:
- Door, lock and access issues
- Minor building fabric repairs
- Plumbing and drainage faults
- General wear and tear across classrooms and shared spaces
Tackling these early helps prevent disruption and unplanned callouts later.
- Compliance checks and statutory works
Keeping on top of compliance is essential. Use the closure period to complete:
- Electrical testing and remedial works
- Emergency lighting checks
- Fire door inspections and repairs
- General compliance-related actions
With fewer people on site, testing and repairs can be completed efficiently and safely.
- Flooring, decorating and internal refreshes
Half term provides the time and access needed for improvement works such as:
- Repainting classrooms, corridors and communal areas
- Flooring repairs or replacement
- Line marking
- Refreshing high-traffic zones
These works can make a noticeable difference to the look, feel and longevity of your spaces.
- Lighting, electrical and energy improvements
Take advantage of the closure to upgrade and maintain building systems:
- Faulty or outdated lighting replacement
- LED upgrades for improved efficiency
- General electrical maintenance and upgrades
- Improving visibility and safety across internal and external areas
Energy-efficient upgrades can also support long-term cost savings.
- External and grounds works
While the site is quieter, February half term is a great time to focus on external areas:
- Guttering and drainage maintenance
- Fencing, gates and boundary repairs
- Pathways, steps and handrails
- External lighting and signage
These works improve safety, accessibility and first impressions.
- Health and safety actions
Outstanding actions from audits, inspections or risk assessments can be addressed quickly during the closure, helping you start the next term fully compliant and confident.
Get your works scheduled early
February half term may be short, but demand is always high. Leaving planning too late can mean limited availability and rushed decisions.
By getting organised now, you benefit from:
- Better scheduling and coordination
- Reduced disruption and downtime
- Clear priorities and budgeting
- Peace of mind ahead of the new term
At FPM Facility Services, we work in partnership with our clients to plan and deliver works that fit your site, timescales and operational needs.
Make the most of February half term
We might not be able to slow down how quickly half term comes around, but we can help you be ready for it.
If you’re already thinking about February half term, now is the time to get in touch. Let’s get your works scheduled, your site organised and everything in place for a smooth return to the next term.
Get in touch with one of the team today.
Tel: 01582 484020
Mail: service@f-p-m.co.uk
