An Interview with Nick Cecil of Academy AV about smart education av for classrooms.
The UK’s events and AV industry is at the heart of our economy, contributing a staggering £61.653 billion annually. However, it faces mounting challenges, from the scars left by the pandemic to ongoing financial pressures caused by the cost-of-living crisis. At Spotlight Sound, we believe that raising awareness of these issues is crucial, which is why we’re launching a campaign featuring five industry professionals who are making a difference. This week, we sit down with Nick Cecil of Academy AV to explore the importance of audiovisual (AV) technology in state schools and why getting it right is critical for the future of education.
Bringing state schools up to speed.
When it comes to AV in education, there’s a stark divide. Many private institutions benefit from cutting-edge technology, while state schools often struggle with outdated and insufficient equipment due to chronic underfunding. Yet, in a world driven by digital media and AI, access to high-quality AV setups is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. A recent project at Brooks Academy & Sixth Form in Dagenham, led by Academy AV in collaboration with Spotlight Sound, is setting a new benchmark for AV in education. Thanks to successful T-Level funding secured by Academy Estate Consultants, the school now boasts professional standard media facilities, including a floor-to-ceiling LED stage, a professional sound and lighting rig, an Apple Mac suite, and additional IT resources. These upgrades mean that students can gain real-world media training before even stepping into the job market which nowadays means they will have that competitive edge.
Why AV investment in schools matters
The UK’s creative industries contribute over £108 billion to the economy, with media courses playing a crucial role in preparing students for careers in film, television, journalism, and digital content creation. It is an industry which is often overlooked. What we see is that the disparity in AV resources across schools creates a two-tier education system, where only the most well-funded schools can provide the tools necessary for success. It is so important that we strategically invest in our AV equipment. Instead of simply opting for the most expensive equipment, we take a more considered approach; one that prioritises teaching, learning, and finding the best solution for both teachers and students, while also making the most effective use of available funding. Spotlight Sound understand this and our goals and rationale were aligned, this meant the result was outstanding and the students now have something that many other media students do not have access to.
Training and future-proofing
However, upgrading AV facilities is only part of the equation. For technology to have a lasting impact, teachers must be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to use it effectively. More teachers need to be upskilled in tech not just so that they can teach it thoroughly and competently but also to use it themselves. The staff at Brooks Academy have embraced the new technology. They understand that ongoing training is essential to ensure that they can fully integrate these tools into their lessons. That’s how students will truly benefit. We already know that the response from students has been overwhelmingly positive. They are getting hands-on training with professional-grade equipment and this has sparked their enthusiasm and creativity. Just as importantly it is preparing them for an extremely competitive industry that demands both technical skills and adaptability. Beyond media courses, the AV setup at Brooks Academy will also enhance learning across other subjects which demonstrates the versatility and long-term value of well-planned AV investments.
The future of smart AV for classrooms
It is true that the AV technology landscape is evolving rapidly. Interactive displays, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) are no longer futuristic concepts, instead, they are becoming essential tools in today’s education. Schools that embrace these advancements can offer richer, more immersive learning experiences that keep pace with the demands of today’s workforce. This is really important when it comes to the world of work, especially in this industry. At Academy AV we are committed to ensuring that schools are not left behind. We’re seeing a shift towards more immersive, interactive education, and AV is at the heart of that change. Our goal is to provide institutions with the right technology and the right support so that students can develop the skills they need for the future. Working with suppliers like Spotlight Sound to get the very best tech such as Dynamo LED displays and other big tech names means we can deliver resources for schools which means their students will succeed.
The Brooks Academy project is a shining example of what’s possible when schools prioritise AV investment. However, it also highlights the need for continued support and funding to ensure that state schools across the UK can offer students the same opportunities as their privately funded counterparts. Academy AV is proud to be a part of this movement and will continue to advocate for the importance of AV in education. If we truly want to prepare the next generation for the digital age, we must give them the tools to succeed.
Click here to learn more about Spotlight Sound and our work in the education sector.