Supporting grounds teams, PE staff, and caretakers in getting school sports facilities term-time ready. As the new academic year gets into full swing, schools across the UK are shifting focus from classrooms to sports fields. Line marking plays a crucial role in creating clear, safe, and high-performing play areas for students. From football and rugby pitches to netball courts and multi-use games areas (MUGAs), accurate and durable markings are essential — and the right equipment makes all the difference.
Whether you’re preparing natural grass, synthetic turf, or hard surfaces, this guide explores the essentials of pitch marking for schools and education providers. From Fleet’s reliable marking machines to surface-specific paint options, here’s how to keep your grounds looking sharp and sports-ready all term.
Choosing the Right Line Marking Machine
For schools and education sites with multiple pitch types, versatility and ease of use are key. Fleet offers a trusted lineup of British-built machines used across the UK and beyond:
+ Kombi Line Marking Machines
Ideal for any natural turf, hard/tarmac or synthetic surface the Kombi Classic, Kombi Ranger and Kombi Orange models offer a high-pressure spray system with adjustable flow control and many other features. Delivers crisp line definition, consistent coverage, and fast, easy setup.
+ BeamRider Laser Machines
Perfect for grounds teams seeking advanced accuracy, the BeamRider range uses laser-guided technology to ensure perfect straight lines, ideal for all markings on grass, hard/tarmac and synthetic surfaces.
+ The Robot by Fleet Line Markers Ltd
Coming soon! Fleet’s highly anticipated line marking innovation - The Robot - delivers fully autonomous, high-precision field marking for schools with large or high-usage facilities. The Robot is designed to map and mark out multiple pitches at once, with minimal input from staff. This AI-powered solution will transform how grounds teams operate, freeing up valuable time and ensuring elite-level consistency across every pitch.
Register HERE to receive updates and secure your spot - be among the first to revolutionise your field marking with The Robot by Fleet Line Markers Ltd.
+ Transfer Wheel Line Markers
A traditional and reliable solution for school sports fields, Transfer Wheel Line Markers are ideal for natural grass. They offer excellent paint coverage, ease of use, and durable steel construction. A great manual option for schools looking for simplicity, precision, and long-lasting line definition.
Paint Options for Every School Surface
FORT 10L Paint
Fleet’s most popular option for schools, FORT is ready-to-use and designed for spray machines. It delivers bright, weather-resistant markings on natural/hybrid turf.
STC Colour Range
Suitable for all artificial/synthetic surfaces such as sand filled, sand dressed, rubber crumb and EPDM. STC is formulated to adhere and last. it offers excellent colour retention and durability. Colours available are White, Yellow, Red, Blue, Green, and Black.
PMF Colour Range
Perfect for tarmac or concrete surfaces such as tennis netball courts, playgrounds and car parks. PMF is a ready-to-use paint that delivers vibrant, long-lasting results, ideal for games areas, directional arrows, and safe play zones. Available in multiple colours: White, Yellow, Red, Blue, Green, and Black.
Learn More: Choosing the Right Paint for Grass vs. Synthetic Surfaces
Top Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Using the wrong paint on artificial or hard surfaces — it can lead to poor adhesion and quick fading
🚫 Skipping proper surface prep before applying paint
🚫 Not maintaining your line marker between uses
🚫 Applying in wet or cold conditions which impacts durability
Maintenance Matters: Caring for Your Line Marking Machines
To extend the lifespan of your investment, regular maintenance is essential, particularly for high-use environments like schools:
- Flush nozzles after every use to avoid clogging and inconsistent spray patterns.
- Check filters and replace if blocked or damaged.
- Use only recommended cleaning products, especially when switching between different types of paint (e.g. FORT vs. STC).
- Store machines in dry environments, especially during half-term breaks or winter closures.
By keeping your machines in good condition, you’ll ensure accurate lines, reduced downtime, and fewer costly repairs.
FAQs – Line Marking for Schools
Q: Can I use the same paint for tarmac and grass?
A: No – each surface requires a different paint. Use PMF for tarmac and concrete, FORT for grass, and STC for synthetic turf.
Q: How long do the lines last on school fields?
A: It depends on surface use and weather, but using the correct paint and application method will ensure markings stay sharp for weeks.
Q: What’s the easiest machine to use for PE staff?
A: The Kombi is user-friendly, quick to set up, and perfect for grass pitches.
Q: Is there support if something goes wrong with our machine?
A: Yes, Fleet Line Markers offers full support, servicing, and replacement parts across all machine types. Training on the correct use and maintenance of machines is available.
Why Fleet Line Markers is Trusted by Schools
Fleet has over 72 years of experience supporting schools, colleges, and academies across the UK. As a leading British manufacturer of line marking machines and paint, Fleet delivers:
- Durable, UK-built machines designed for education settings
- Multiple paint options for all surfaces – grass, artificial turf, tarmac
- Budget-friendly and premium solutions for schools of all sizes
- Reliable delivery and customer support when you need it most
- Ongoing service advice and parts availability across all machine types
- All paints are made in our UK factory using solar renewable energy.
Need help choosing the right machine or paint for your school sports facilities?
Contact Fleet Line Markers, our expert team is here to help.
