Guide to Classroom Chair Sizes

The importance of ergonomics and the fit of chairs and their respective desks and tables in office environments is well publicised, but it is, perhaps, given less prominence in education settings, despite the fact that children and students spend a considerable portion of their days in a seated position. Varying heights of different age groups, and the fact that the majority of school chairs do not feature any adjustability, mean that choosing the correct chair and desk/table for each application is crucial. In this guide, we'll investigate the standards, sizing options and types of chair on offer and simplify your decision-making process.

 What are the Standards for School Chairs?

Educational furniture in the UK must meet BS EN 1729 standards, which are derived from European standards created in 2007 and revised in 2015. The two parts of the standard cover functional dimensions (Part 1) and safety requirements and testing methods (Part 2).

The basic terminology used to reference dimensions in BS EN 1729 Part 1 is as follows:

Stature - The distance between the floor and the top of a student's head.

Popliteal Height - This refers to the correct seat height, and is calculated by measuring the distance between the floor and the back of the student's knee when seated, with the thighs parallel to the floor and the lower legs vertical, with feet flat on the floor.

Sitting Working Height - This refers to the correct height of a table and is calculated by measuring the distance from the floor to a student's elbow when the student is seated with feet flat on the floor, upper legs parallel to the floor and upper arms and lower legs in a vertical position.

Standing Working Height - This is measured in the same way as sitting working height, but the student is in a standing position with legs straight. This is used to determine the correct height for desks and tables that will be used predominantly in a standing position, such as science benches. 

 What Height of Chairs are Suitable for Primary School Children?

 What Height of Tables/Desks are Suitable for Primary School Children?

What Height of Chairs for are Suitable for Secondary School Children?

Chairs and desks for secondary school children are divided into fewer sizes, but it is worth noting that rapid growth occurs during this age range, so furniture that is suitable for years 7 - 9, may not work for older students. 

Furniture marked as size 6 will also fit adults, making it suitable for FE, HE and adult learning environments.

What Height of Desks/Tables are Suitable for Secondary School Children?

As ever, these are guidelines based on average data for student cohorts within the UK and Europe. Average student heights within a specific age range vary considerably between countries, so it is worth considering the impact of this on seating and desk size if you are purchasing items for countries outside of Europe.

Should you have any questions regarding furniture sizing for your specific applications, please drop us a line via the online chat function, or by calling us on the number shown at the top right of the site.