As we move into 2026, the education landscape is evolving more rapidly than ever before, and school buying trends are shifting. School leaders are faced with a growing array of products and services promising to transform learning, boost wellbeing, and streamline operations. While many of these innovations offer genuine value, others are simply riding the wave of trending topics—sometimes without the experience, understanding, or credentials required to deliver real impact in schools.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at the predicted school buying trends for 2026, examine the reasons behind their rising popularity, and—critically—offer practical advice on making informed, safe procurement decisions. We’ll also highlight the importance of using trusted directories, checking accreditations, and seeking out genuine testimonials and case studies before committing budget to new solutions.
1. Wellbeing Solutions: A Whole-School Priority
Why Wellbeing Products Are on the Rise in Schools
Student and staff wellbeing has never been more important. The lasting effects of the pandemic, rising mental health concerns, and growing awareness of the link between wellbeing and learning outcomes are driving schools to invest in comprehensive wellbeing solutions.
Trending Products & Services
- Digital Wellbeing Platforms: These offer self-assessment tools, access to mental health resources, and confidential reporting channels for students and staff. Many now integrate with school management systems, providing real-time data and alerts for safeguarding leads.
- On-Site and Remote Workshops: Mindfulness sessions, resilience training, and mental health first aid courses delivered by accredited professionals.
- Wearable Devices: Fitness trackers and wellbeing wearables encourage healthy habits and can provide anonymised data to help schools monitor trends in activity and stress.
Procurement Warning
Not all wellbeing providers are created equal. Schools should be wary of companies offering generic or unproven solutions. Always check for accreditations in child psychology, education, or counselling, and ask for case studies or testimonials from other schools with similar demographics. Remember, effective wellbeing support must be evidence-based and tailored to the unique needs of each school community.
Find Trusted Suppliers:
For trusted suppliers in this area, view the Wellbeing Support category and Workshops & Guest Speakers on the National Register of Education Suppliers.
2. Digital Safety: Phone Blocking & Device Management
Why Digital Safety Is a Hot Topic for Schools
With mobile phones now ubiquitous among pupils, digital distractions and safeguarding concerns are at an all-time high. Schools are under pressure to enforce robust phone policies and protect students from online risks during the school day. Further Reading: School Phone Policies in England – Findings from the Children’s Commissioner’s School and College Survey
Trending Products & Services
- Phone Blocking Pouches: Signal-blocking pouches or lockable boxes that securely store devices during lessons, exams, or assemblies.
- Smart Lockers: Automated lockers that use PIN codes or student cards to manage device access, with audit trails for safeguarding.
- Device Management Software: Platforms allowing IT leads to monitor, restrict, or report on device use across the school network, ensuring compliance with policies and safeguarding requirements.
Procurement Warning
Beware of “quick fix” solutions. Some companies are capitalising on the demand for phone control products without understanding school logistics, safeguarding, or data protection. Always check product safety certifications and request references from schools already using the solution. Effective implementation relies on staff training and clear communication with parents and pupils.
Find Trusted Suppliers:
Explore the IT Solutions, Health & Safety, and Safeguarding categories for reputable suppliers.
3. Artificial Intelligence: Training, Teaching, and Learning
Why AI Is Gaining Ground in Schools
AI is reshaping every sector, and education is no exception. Schools are turning to AI to improve efficiency, personalise learning, and support staff. Further Reading: AI in education: how schools and further education colleges are making it work
Trending Products & Services
- AI-Powered Lesson Planning: Tools that generate differentiated lesson resources, suggest activities, and even automate marking based on curriculum objectives.
- Adaptive Learning Platforms: These platforms analyse student responses in real time, adapting content to each learner’s pace and style.
- AI-Driven Safeguarding Alerts: Systems that flag concerning behaviour in digital communications or online activity, supporting proactive intervention.
- AI Training for Staff: Professional development workshops ensuring teachers understand how to use AI responsibly, including data privacy and ethical considerations.
Procurement Warning
AI is not a magic bullet. While some suppliers offer genuinely transformative tools, others may overpromise or lack educational expertise. Prioritise suppliers who can demonstrate robust data protection, clear impact data, and offer ongoing support and training. Case studies from other schools are invaluable—especially those detailing implementation challenges and outcomes.
Find Trusted Suppliers:
For the latest in AI and EdTech, visit the EdTech and CPD & Training categories.
4. EdTech Innovations: Immersive and Interactive Learning
Why EdTech Keeps Growing in the Education Sector
The shift to digital learning during the pandemic accelerated adoption of new technologies. In 2026, schools are seeking solutions that go beyond the basics, aiming for deeper engagement and improved outcomes.
Trending Products & Services
- Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR): VR headsets and AR apps bring subjects to life, from virtual field trips to interactive science experiments.
- Online Assessment Tools: Platforms that streamline marking, provide instant feedback, and offer analytics for tracking progress.
- Collaboration Platforms: Tools that enable project-based learning, peer feedback, and cross-school partnerships, often with built-in safeguarding features.
Procurement Warning
Compatibility and support matter. EdTech products must work seamlessly with your existing systems and infrastructure. Avoid suppliers who can’t demonstrate successful integration in similar settings or who lack a clear support and training offer. Ask for pilot access and speak to schools who have already implemented the product.
Find Trusted Suppliers:
Discover innovative options in the EdTech and Learning Resources categories.
5. Outsourced Services: From Catering to Safeguarding
Why Outsourcing Is Increasing in the UK Education Sector
Budget pressures and the need for specialist expertise are leading more schools to outsource non-core services. This allows schools to focus on teaching and learning, while benefiting from professional support.
Trending Services
- Wellbeing-Focused Catering: Providers offering plant-based menus, allergen management, and nutrition education as part of the catering contract.
- Third-Party Safeguarding Audits: Independent checks to ensure policies, training, and records meet statutory requirements.
- SEND Support Services: External specialists providing tailored interventions for pupils with additional needs, often funded via EHCPs or Pupil Premium.
Procurement Warning
Due diligence is critical. Always check for relevant qualifications, such as food hygiene ratings or recognised safeguarding accreditations. Request references from schools of a similar size and context, and ensure contracts include clear KPIs and review points.
Find Trusted Suppliers:
Find experienced providers in Canteen & Catering, Safeguarding and Special Educational Needs.
6. Facilities and Security: Keeping Schools Safe and Efficient
Why Facilities Management Is Evolving in UK Schools
Schools are under pressure to maintain safe, sustainable, and cost-effective buildings. New products and services are emerging to support these goals.
Trending Products & Services
- Smart Security Systems: Integrated CCTV, access control, and visitor management tailored for the education sector.
- Energy Efficiency Solutions: LED lighting upgrades, solar panels, and smart heating controls to reduce costs and environmental impact.
- Outdoor Learning Spaces: Modular classrooms, sensory gardens, and weatherproof shelters to support flexible learning.
Procurement Warning
Beware of “one size fits all” offers. Education settings have unique requirements—especially around safeguarding and accessibility. Choose suppliers with proven experience in schools, and insist on site visits, risk assessments, and references.
Find Trusted Suppliers:
Explore Facilities Management, Security, and Outdoor Learning for specialist providers.
The Rise of “Bandwagon” Suppliers: A Word of Caution
Whenever a new trend emerges, it’s common to see a flood of new suppliers entering the market—some with little or no experience of working in schools. These companies may offer attractive prices or bold claims but lack understanding of school logistics, safeguarding, or compliance.
How to Protect Your School
- Check Accreditations: Ensure suppliers have up-to-date, relevant certifications (e.g., DBS checks for service providers, CE marking for products, GDPR compliance for software).
- Seek Testimonials and Case Studies: Look for detailed feedback from other schools, ideally with similar needs or demographics. Genuine case studies should outline both successes and challenges.
- Ask About School-Specific Experience: Suppliers should be able to explain how their product or service fits within the school environment, including installation, staff training, and ongoing support.
- Be Wary of Overpromising: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Prioritise transparency and proven impact over flashy marketing.
Where to Find Reputable School Suppliers: The National Register of Education Suppliers
With so many new products and services on the market, using a trusted source for procurement is more important than ever. The National Register of Education Suppliers is the UK’s leading directory, listing trusted suppliers across all categories. Every supplier profile includes:
- Accreditations and awards
- Genuine testimonials from schools
- Contact details and direct links for enquiries
- School-focused descriptions and case studies
By using the National Register, school leaders can compare suppliers, check credentials, and make informed decisions—reducing risk and ensuring best value for their budget.
Finding the best suppliers for your school:
For suppliers with proven track records, always start with the All Categories page to compare options across sectors.
Final Thoughts
2026 is set to be a year of exciting change for UK schools, with new products and services offering the potential to improve wellbeing, safety, learning, and efficiency. However, with opportunity comes risk—especially as more companies jump on the bandwagon of trending solutions without the expertise or understanding required for success in schools.
By staying informed, insisting on accreditations and genuine testimonials, and using trusted directories like the National Register of Education Suppliers, school decision makers can ensure they invest wisely—protecting both their budget and their school community.
For more guidance, case studies, or to explore trending products and services from trusted suppliers, visit the National Register of Education Suppliers.