A desk clock that could be a game changer for air quality in schools

When the UK government rolled out CO₂ monitors to schools, the goal was clear: improve indoor air quality and reduce the spread of airborne illness. But there was a key limitation. Most devices only measured CO₂, overlooking other critical pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5), which plays a major role in respiratory health and infection control.

What’s more, in many schools the monitors were quickly sidelined. Here's what teachers have told us:

  • They have little interest in air quality monitors, even with training
  • Government-issued and commercial monitors often go unused
  • Buzzers were disruptive
  • Kids tasked with checking them become distracted
  • Small screens don’t draw attention

In short, air quality monitoring felt like just another job - and it slipped through the cracks.


Enter the QP Pro 2

The QP Pro 2 isn’t just another monitor. It’s a multifunctional tool that fits naturally into the classroom environment. It looks like a modern desk clock, but offers crucial insights into the air children breathe.

Here’s why it’s different:

  • Large, clear touch-screen
    The time is front and centre - something teachers glance at constantly. Surrounding it is real-time air quality data, colour-coded and updated every second. Over time, teachers become naturally aware of patterns in classroom air quality without needing to "check the monitor"
  • Comprehensive, meaningful data
    Unlike most school-issued monitors, the QP Pro 2 tracks CO₂ and particles (PM2.5, PM10), tVOC, temperature, humidity, and noise - all on one screen. That means if particle levels spike or CO₂ creeps up, teachers can make quick, informed decisions like opening a window or door.
  • Noise monitoring
    Classroom noise is an increasing concern across the UK, EU and US. The QP Pro 2 includes a noise sensor so if the room is too loud, teachers can simply point to the screen - helping pupils self-regulate without repeated verbal reminders.
  • Built-in alarm and local weather display
    Phones are often discouraged in classrooms, so the built-in alarm can help keep lessons running to schedule. The weather forecast and UV index are also visible, useful for planning outdoor time.
  • No app dependency
    All key functions (eg setting thresholds, checking current levels) can be done directly on the device. Web access is only needed if you want to view more than 30 days of historical data.

A low-effort, high-impact tool

The genius of the QP Pro 2 is in its subtlety. Rather than demanding attention like buzzers or pop-ups, it simply becomes part of the classroom, gently reinforcing air quality awareness through a familiar behaviour: checking the time.

It doesn’t require pupils to act as ‘monitor monitors’, and it doesn’t disrupt teaching. It’s a tool that works with teachers, not against them.

Explore the QP Pro 2

Could this be the classroom clock that quietly improves the air your students breathe?

👉 Find out more about the QP Pro 2

Smart Air low cost purifiers

Smart Air is a social enterprise and certified B Corp that offers simple, no-nonsense air purifiers and provides free education to protect people from the harms of air pollution.

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