Furniture Size Guide for Schools

Understanding the importance of proper furniture sizing in schools

School furniture must be designed to suit different sizes. British and European Standards cover the heights of chairs and tables according to age groups.

It is imperative that students be seated comfortably, to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal problems as well as to increase concentration and productivity.

The six size groups in the Standard are based on popliteal height and stature. Purchasers should work out the average of both for their year groups. 10mm leeway is allowed.

Size Guide – Chairs:

Chair heights for school age groups:

• Age 3-4 years – chair height 260 mm
• Age 4-6 years – chair height 310 mm
• Age 6-8 years – chair height 350 mm
• Age 8-11 years – chair height 380 mm
• Age 11-14 years – chair height 430 mm
• Age 14+ years – chair height 460 mm

Size Guide – Desks:

Desk or table heights for school age groups:

• Age 3-4 years – table height 460 mm
• Age 4-6 years – table height 530 mm
• Age 6-8 years – table height 590 mm
• Age 8-11 years – table height 640 mm
• Age 11-14 years – table height 710 mm
• Age 14+ years – table height 760 mm

Size Guide – other school furniture:

For standing table heights, the same calculations apply. Heights range from 590 mm for 3-4 year olds to 1000 mm for eleven years plus.

But what about school furniture that isn’t defined by standards, like bookcases and storage units? Again, it’s useful to take average sizes as a starting point. The best commercial suppliers should offer the option of bespoke sizes, so furniture can be made to your exact specifications.

The basics of school furniture sizes

As well as covering build quality, school furniture standards take various measurements into account to calculate table and chair sizes.

The measurements are:

• Stature – measurement of height from head to toe.
• Popliteal height – measurement from floor to the underside of the seated knee.
• Sitting work height – distance from floor to elbow when seated with arms resting on table.
• Standing work height – distance from floor to elbow when standing with arms resting on table.

Practical tips for choosing the right sized furniture

Our top tip for choosing the right-sized furniture for schools is to remember your alphabet.

• D for Durability – furniture should be of quality build suitable for everyday use.
• E for Ergonomics – furniture must be correctly sized and be comfortable.
• F for Flexibility – furniture should be accessible to the majority of users and ideally fit for multipurpose activities.

Importance of regular furniture assessment and replacement

Once furniture is purchased, a system for regular assessments should be in place with average year sizes compared frequently. Add to this a maintenance plan that includes regular inspections.

Conclusion

School furniture design must take into account the fact that children can be seated for 6-7 hours per day. Chair and table sizes should be selected according to British and European Standards, based on average measurements.

For other school furniture an experienced contract furniture supplier like Spaceist will offer a range of sizes, including bespoke, and will be able to advise you on space planning.

What is bespoke furniture?

Bespoke furniture is made to order so that if the standard sizes don’t fit you can choose the exact size that you need.

How can I easily calculate how much furniture I need?

To calculate furniture needs, measure the room and work out the space required around each piece depending on usage. An experienced contract furniture provider will help with space planning.