A Guide for Architects, Specifiers, and Facilities Managers in Education
The humble classroom board has come a long way. From chalk and squeaky markers to smooth, height-adjustable electric surfaces, the modern writing board is now a core feature of inclusive, high-performance learning environments.
If you’re specifying for a school, college, or university, this guide will help you choose between our Electric Column Boards, Manual Column Boards, and Hybrid Interactive Systems, so you can deliver the best possible result for your users.
What Is an Automated Writing Board?
An automated or adjustable writing board is any teaching surface that moves vertically or horizontally to improve accessibility, flexibility, and classroom space efficiency. These can be powered (electric), manual (mechanical), or fully integrated with digital displays.
Common terms you may come across include:
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Electric column board
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Sliding whiteboard
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Motorised chalkboard
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Vertical lift board
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Mechanical or manual column board
Don’t worry about the terminology — what matters is matching the right solution to the teaching space.
Why Choose an Adjustable Board?
Education settings today are more inclusive, tech-integrated, and space-conscious than ever. Automated writing boards offer:
✅ Height adjustability for learners and staff of all needs
✅ Maximum surface area in tight spaces
✅ Hybrid teaching support, integrating with AV/interactive tools
✅ Compliant, future-proof designs that support evolving pedagogy
“Our new electric board has made lessons far more inclusive. Teachers and pupils can adjust the height with ease – and it looks fantastic.”
– Facilities Manager, UK Secondary School
1. Electric Column Boards (Motorised)
Ideal for accessible, multi-user environments like SEN classrooms, lecture theatres, and collaborative spaces.
Choose if you need: effortless height adjustment, compliance with DDA standards, and quiet, professional-looking operation.
Our recommended Products:
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Electric Dry Wipe Column Board
Smooth motorised lift with a premium whiteboard finish.
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Traditional chalk feel with silent electric adjustment — popular in universities and heritage buildings.
2. Mechanical Column Boards (Manual)
Reliable, affordable, and perfect where power access is limited.
Choose if you need: simple usability, no electrics, and robust manual operation.
Our recommended Products:
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Easy manual sliding action with a contemporary dry-wipe surface.
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Classic design, modern engineering — a favourite in primary and secondary schools.
3. Hybrid and Interactive Board Systems
Combine digital display capabilities with writable wings for maximum teaching flexibility.
Choose if you need: a solution that bridges digital and traditional teaching in one clean setup.
Our recommended Product:
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Flexi-View Interactive Column Board
Combine AV displays with fold-out writing surfaces — ideal for tech-enabled lecture spaces.
How to Specify – Step-by-Step
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Understand Your Space: Wall area, ceiling height, power availability.
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Define User Needs: Age range, accessibility, DDA compliance.
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Choose a System Type: Electric, mechanical, or hybrid.
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Select a Surface: Dry-wipe, chalk, or AV integration.
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Plan for Integration: Think ahead to projectors, displays, and future upgrades.
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Get Expert Advice: We’ll guide you through specification, delivery, and installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you install in older buildings?
Yes! Our systems are designed to retrofit into both new and historic settings.
Do the boards meet accessibility standards?
Absolutely. Our electric models are DDA-compliant and height-adjustable for all users.
Do you accept purchase orders from schools and universities?
Yes, we’re fully set up for education-sector procurement.
What’s included in installation?
A full UK-wide professional service, including safety checks and user demonstrations.
Ready to Specify?
Visit our Column Boards Collection to explore the full range or head straight to the product that’s right for you:
Or get in touch for free advice, site surveys, and expert guidance on your next education project.
