Rethinking Your School for 2026: How Small Changes Can Spark Big Impact

As we settle into the rhythm of 2025, now is the ideal moment to look ahead — to imagine how your school can evolve in 2026. For many schools, the end-of-year holiday break is one of the few windows available to make real, physical changes. Used wisely, this short period can lead to long-term gains for your students and staff.

At AJC Architects, we often find that it’s not about the size of the budget — it’s about the quality of the ideas and the precision of the planning. A well-timed, targeted refresh can bring new life to tired spaces, support contemporary teaching methods, and spark renewed engagement. Dua Green, AJC Director

The key is to think strategically. What areas of your school are doing the most heavy lifting, and how could they work harder or smarter? Are there underutilised spaces that could be reimagined for collaboration, wellbeing or quiet focus? Could an outdoor area benefit from shade, or a classroom benefit from a layout rethink?

“Planning ahead for small, focused refreshes during the holiday period ensures your budget works hard and your learning environments stay inspiring and functional,” says Dua Green, Education Director at AJC Architects. “Even modest updates can create a big impact on the experience of students and staff alike.”

This isn’t just theory — our team has delivered fast, efficient and transformative school projects over holiday breaks, from rethinking prep libraries to installing shade structures and completely refurbishing learning environments in under three months. The results speak for themselves: vibrant spaces that inspire, support and elevate the learning journey.

With the 2026 school year on the horizon, now is the time to start planning. Let’s explore how your budget — and your school community — can benefit from thoughtful, high-impact improvements. We’d love to collaborate on a strategy that ensures your school feels fresh, future-ready, and tailored to the people who use it every day.

Inspiration from Recent Projects

Sydney Grammar School Prep Library
Delivered in just six weeks, this warm and engaging space encourages curiosity and connection. Natural light, flexible zones, and an emphasis on imaginative play support early learning in a beautifully designed environment.

Sydney Grammar School Shade Structure
Completed in just eight weeks, this structure adds practical comfort for outdoor activities while blending seamlessly into the campus aesthetic. AJC’s efficient delivery ensured minimal disruption.

Kambala Refurbishment
Major upgrades were achieved within a two-month program, from Pre-K to Year 12 spaces. The result: dynamic learning environments with acoustic treatments, flexible layouts and refined finishes — plus upgraded staff areas with custom joinery and thoughtful design touches.