For many schools, the multipurpose hall is one of the hardest-working spaces on campus. On any given day it may host assemblies, physical education classes, performances, exams, community events or after-hours activities.
But keeping these large-volume spaces comfortable can be a challenge, particularly during warmer months when heat build-up and stagnant air can make conditions uncomfortable for students and staff.
At Jells Park Primary School, school leaders wanted to improve comfort and usability in their multipurpose hall without compromising energy efficiency. Their experience highlights how a targeted airflow solution can transform a key learning and gathering space.
A common challenge for Australian schools
The school’s multipurpose hall measures approximately 19.5 metres wide by 33 metres long, with dual eave heights of 6.9 metres and 8.6 metres. It’s a layout that will be familiar to many Australian schools.
While the space serves a wide range of purposes throughout the year, maintaining consistent airflow across the hall proved difficult, particularly during periods of high occupancy.
To address the issue, the school partnered with Big Ass Fans, whose high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans are specifically designed for large-volume spaces with fluctuating occupancy levels.
Designing the right solution
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Big Ass Fans used its SpecLab airflow modelling technology to assess the hall and design a solution tailored to the building’s dimensions and usage patterns.
The analysis identified the most effective fan placement and airflow strategy to deliver comfort throughout the entire space.
The resulting design focused on:
- Reducing heat build-up during warmer weather
- Creating even airflow coverage across the hall
- Improving comfort for students, staff and visitors
- Supporting year-round use of the facility
To achieve this, two Powerfoil X4 (PFX4) fans were installed.
Improving comfort and usability
The impact has been felt across a range of school activities.
Whether students are gathered for assemblies, sitting exams, participating in indoor sport or attending performances, the hall now benefits from consistent air movement throughout the space.
The improved airflow helps create a more comfortable environment for large groups while enhancing the overall usability of the facility.
For a busy primary school, that means a hall that can better support:
- Whole-school assemblies
- Indoor sport and physical education
- Concerts and performances
- Examination periods
- Parent and community events
- After-hours activities
A practical example for other schools
Jells Park Primary School’s project demonstrates how airflow modelling and HVLS fan technology can be used to improve comfort in a standard school hall environment.
With many Australian schools operating multipurpose facilities of a similar size and design, the project offers a practical blueprint for schools looking to enhance student comfort, maximise the use of existing facilities and create a more enjoyable environment throughout the year.
Project Snapshot
School: Jells Park Primary School
Facility: Multipurpose Hall
Hall size: 19.5m x 33m
Eave heights: 6.9m and 8.6m
Solution: Two Powerfoil X4 (PFX4) HVLS fans
Outcome: Improved airflow, reduced heat build-up and enhanced comfort for students, staff and visitors across a wide range of school activities.
Project investment: Approximately $35,000 including installation.*
Installation requirements may vary depending on site conditions and access equipment requirements.
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