What Ceiling Tiles Are Best for Schools & Universities? A Guide for Ceiling Contractors

What Ceiling Tiles Are Used in Schools?

Ceiling tiles in educational environments must do more than look good – they need to support learning, meet strict acoustic standards, ensure fire safety, and contribute to energy efficiency. As contractors gear up for the summer refurbishment period, GO Interiors is here to help you choose the right tile for every school space.

Why Acoustics Matter in Schools (Understanding BB93)

The UK Department for Education’s Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) outlines minimum acoustic performance standards for new and refurbished school buildings. It covers:

• Reverberation times in classrooms
• Ambient noise levels
• Sound insulation between teaching spaces

Tiles like Zentia Aruba and Knauf TOPIQ® Alpha 15 are fully compliant with BB93 guidance, supporting focused learning and clear communication.

Acoustic Requirements by Space

• Classrooms & Lecture Theatres: Require good speech intelligibility (Class C or A absorption)
• Corridors: Need robust tiles with moderate sound attenuation
• Science Labs: Demand tiles with resistance to moisture & chemicals
• Sports Halls: Benefit from impact-resistant systems
• Libraries: Quiet zones call for superior absorption

Are Ceiling Tiles Energy-Efficient?

Yes – light-reflective ceiling tiles like TOPIQ® Alpha 15 (86% reflectance) can enhance natural light distribution and reduce artificial lighting needs, lowering energy bills and supporting sustainability goals.

What are Ceiling Tiles Made Of?

Most suspended ceiling tiles are made from mineral fibre, soft fibre, or gypsum-based materials.

• Zentia Aruba is made with recycled newspapers, starch, and calcite – 44% recycled content.
• Knauf TOPIQ® Alpha 15 is made from bio-soluble stone wool and is certified for low VOC emissions.

Are Ceiling Tiles Sustainable?

Sustainability is a growing priority in public sector projects.

• Zentia Aruba is recyclable and can be returned through Zentia’s recycling scheme.
• Knauf TOPIQ® Alpha 15 is certified with Blue Angel, Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold, and M1 environmental standards. 

How Can GO Interiors Help?

GO Interiors supplies suspended ceiling tiles from all leading manufacturers, with expert support from your local branch. We offer:

• National delivery
• Technical support & specification advice
• Large stock of Zentia Aruba and Knauf TOPIQ® Alpha 15
• Cost-effective, reliable solutions tailored to education spaces

Summary: Why Ceilings Contractors Choose GO Interiors

✅ Trusted by specialist ceiling installers across the UK
✅ Full range of compliant education-sector ceiling tiles
✅ Quick turnaround and dependable service
✅ Strong relationships with Zentia and Knauf Ceiling Solutions

See our full range of suspended ceilings. 

Get in touch for support and technical advice.