Durable printed signage designed for a changing school site
When Ysgol Dyffryn Taf in Whitland needed new exterior signage, the project involved much more than replacing a few old signs.
Changes to the way the school site was being used, including opening the rear of the school for coach parking meant that visitors, pupils and staff needed clearer directions around the site. The school also wanted a new main entrance sign and larger printed signage that would remain clear, professional and durable for years to come.
A collaborative approach from survey to installation
We collaborated closely with the school throughout the survey, design and specification process. taking time to understand how the site had changed, where visitors needed clearer guidance and what the new signage needed to achieve.
MOBAD managed the complete exterior signage process, from the initial site survey and design development through to material specification, printing, manufacture and installation. Ideas and practical considerations were discussed with the school as the scheme developed, ensuring that the finished signage worked for the people using the site every day.
The completed scheme includes a new main entrance sign, large exterior signs and improved directional and wayfinding signage for the rearranged school site and coach-parking area.
Planning signage for long-term use
During our initial walk around the school with Headteacher, we reviewed the existing signage and talked about how the new signs would be positioned and used.
Outdoor signage naturally faces years of sunlight, weather and everyday wear, so we considered the conditions at each location rather than using the same specification throughout. This included looking at sun exposure, the size and position of each sign, its surroundings and how long it would need to remain looking clear and professional.
Taking the time to understand these details allowed us to recommend suitable materials and finishes for each part of the school, creating a durable printed signage scheme designed around the site itself.
Choosing durable materials for each location
We used aluminium for the prominent signage at the front of the school, where appearance and long-term durability were particularly important.
For more exposed areas around the coach bays, we recommended traffic-grade composite. This provided the strength and durability required for large directional signs without unnecessarily using higher-value aluminium in more isolated parts of the site.
Selected signs were also finished with anti-graffiti laminate. This protective overlaminate provides strong resistance to abrasion, solvents and cleaning chemicals, while making graffiti easier to remove. It also adds further UV protection, particularly useful for signage installed in full sunlight or on south-facing parts of the school.
It was a considered specification rather than a one-material-fits-all approach. Every decision was made collaboratively with the school and based on how the printed signage would actually be used.
Quality, communication and attention to detail
MOBAD was not the lowest-priced bidder for the projct - however, our proposal was selected because of the quality of the submission, our methodology and the level of attention given to the project.
We managed the complete exterior signage process, from the initial site survey and design development through to material specification, printing, manufacture and installation
The completed scheme includes a new main entrance sign, large exterior signs and improved directional and wayfinding signage for the rearranged school site and coach-parking area.
Following the installation, Alun told us:
“The look and build quality is top notch, exactly what I was hoping for. Thank you for being so open and responsive as well as an excellent communicator. It’s been great working with you.”
That feedback means a great deal because it reflects not only the quality of the finished school signage, but also the collaborative way the project was delivered.
Looking forward to Phase Two
With the exterior signage now complete, we’re looking forward to continuing our work with Ysgol Dyffryn Taf on Phase 2.
The next stage includes bespoke printed wallpaper and wall graphics for the entrance area, waiting room and hall, together with further directional signage inside the school. We’re excited to see the complete scheme come together and help create a welcoming, consistent experience from the moment people arrive on site.
If your school, college or public-sector site needs new printed signage, directional signs or a complete signage survey and installation service, speak to MOBAD about creating a durable solution designed around the way your site actually works.
