A school has replaced its out-dated fluorescent lighting after winning a competition – and could save between £30,000 and £40,000 in energy costs over the next five years.

Slaithwaite CE Junior & Infant School won a £10,000 lighting upgrade in a competition aimed at educational environments organised by lighting manufacturer 4lite, in partnership with Screwfix.

The upgrade came at a vital time for the school as its ageing 1960s buildings were fitted with outdated fluorescent strip lighting that had become unreliable.

Head teacher Caroline Fowler explained that the school’s previous high-energy fluorescent strip lighting often failed or flickered leaving some areas without adequate lighting.

“In some cases, we had to switch the lights off altogether,” she said. “That meant parts of the school had no sufficient lighting, which isn’t acceptable for a learning environment.”

Through the competition the school partnered with 4lite, retail partner Screwfix and installation specialist Finney Electrical, to deliver a fast, energy-efficient solution.

4lite LED panels and bulkhead lights were installed, including adjustable fittings that allow staff to tailor lighting to different lessons and pupil needs.

Mrs Fowler added: “The new LED lighting was installed so quickly, with minimal disruption to the school day.

“The difference has been immediate – the classrooms are brighter, more comfortable spaces. It’s made a real, positive impact on both teaching and pupil experience.”

As well as transforming the classrooms into brighter, more welcoming learning spaces, the new lighting is expected to save the school between £30,000 and £40,000 in energy costs over the next five years.

Mrs Fowler added: “The savings this will help us achieve are amazing.

“We operate on such a tight budget, and every pound we save can be put directly back into the children — supporting their education and wellbeing.”