Wave Dynamics Acoustic Consultants is proud to announce that we have been awarded Joint Second Place at the Local Enterprise Awards, hosted by the Local Enterprise Office. This recognition is a testament to our team’s ongoing commitment to technical excellence, client service, and innovation in the field of acoustic consultancy.

A Milestone for Our Growing Team

The Local Enterprise Awards celebrate the dedication, innovation, and success of small businesses across the region. Competing among some of the most promising companies, our team was honoured to receive this accolade for the work we do across residential, commercial, education, renewable energy and infrastructure projects.

Our Director, James Cousins accepted the award on behalf of the Wave Dynamics team. Speaking after the event, they said:

“This award is a reflection of the talent and hard work within our team. We’re grateful to our clients, collaborators, and supporters who’ve trusted us to deliver high-quality acoustic solutions that make a meaningful difference to buildings and communities.”

A Big Year for Wave Dynamics

The recognition at the Local Enterprise Awards comes during a period of strong growth for Wave Dynamics. In addition to delivering high-profile acoustic assessments and sound insulation testing across Ireland and the UK, we recently opened a new office in Cork, expanding our reach and deepening our presence in the Munster region.

With active projects in Ireland, UK, Belgium, Denmark and Italy , our team continues to provide expertise in:

• Environmental Acoustics.

• Building Acoustics & Sound Insulation

• Planning & Compliance Assessments

• Vibration Monitoring & Control

• Acoustic Modelling & Simulation

Looking Ahead

This award energises our mission to set the standard for acoustic consultancy—delivering rigorous, thoughtful, and data-driven solutions tailored to each project’s needs.

To learn more about our services or discuss how we can support your next development, feel free to get in touch with our team.

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Thank you to the Local Enterprise Office  for your ongoing support of local businesses—and congratulations to all the other inspiring companies recognised this year! 🏆

In the pursuit of providing students with optimal learning environments, it is essential to recognise the profound impact that acoustics can have on educational settings. Research has consistently shown that good acoustics in schools significantly enhance students’ learning experiences, fostering better concentration, comprehension, and overall academic performance. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits of good acoustics in schools, backed by research, and explore how the services of Wave Dynamics can ensure the best acoustic outcomes for school projects.

Acoustics in schools play a crucial role in creating an optimal learning environment for students. School acoustics standards include  SDG 02-05-03 – Acoustic Performance in New Primary & Post Primary School Buildings  is the appropriate standard in Ireland, in the UK BB 93 BB93: Acoustic design of schools – performance standards is the defacto standard.  Guidance is also provided on the design of school acoustics through the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) Acoustics of Schools: a design guide.

Here are a few reasons why acoustics are important, along with some research examples that support these claims:

1. Speech Intelligibility: Good acoustics ensure that students can hear and understand speech clearly, which is essential for effective communication and learning. Excessive noise, such as HVAC systems, outdoor sounds, or reverberation, can significantly hinder speech perception and comprehension. Researchers suggest implementing sound-absorbing materials. The quality and delivery of teacher speech have a significant impact on student understanding. Studies have shown that teachers who adopt clear, articulate speech patterns with appropriate pacing and emphasis enhance speech intelligibility for students. Student-related factors affecting speech intelligibility. For instance, studies have shown that children with hearing impairments or language disorders may face additional challenges in understanding speech in noisy environments. Implementing assistive listening devices and offering personalised support can significantly improve speech intelligibility for these students. Furthermore, fostering inclusive classroom practices that promote peer-to-peer communication and cooperation enhances speech comprehension among all students. A study conducted by Shield and Dockrell (2004) found that poor classroom acoustics can significantly impact speech intelligibility, leading to reduced academic performance and increased teacher vocal strain.

2. Academic Performance: Several studies have demonstrated a link between classroom acoustics and academic performance. For instance, a study by Crandell, Smaldino, & Flexer (2005) revealed that improved classroom acoustics, including reduced background noise and reverberation times, were associated with better reading comprehension and higher scores on standardised tests.

3. Attention and Concentration: Proper acoustics contribute to a quieter and less distracting learning environment, enabling students to concentrate better. A research study by Klatte, Lachmann, and Meis (2010) showed that high ambient noise levels negatively impacted students’ attention and performance on cognitive tasks.

4. Special Education and Learning Disabilities: Acoustic considerations are particularly critical for students with special education needs or learning disabilities. Research by Crandell, Smaldino, & Flexer (2005) demonstrated that children with hearing loss or auditory processing disorders faced even more significant challenges in classrooms with poor acoustics, leading to difficulties in speech perception and academic achievement.

5. Teacher-Student Communication: Effective communication between teachers and students is vital for learning. Poor classroom acoustics can strain teacher vocal cords and impede communication. A study by Bradley and Sato (2008) found that teachers in classrooms with good acoustics experienced less vocal fatigue and were better able to maintain vocal quality throughout the day.

It is clear from the research the importance of acoustics in schools and the impact they have on various aspects of education, including speech intelligibility, academic performance, attention, and teacher-student communication. Improving classroom acoustics can create an environment that supports optimal learning outcomes for students.

For more information on school acoustics for projects or to request a CPD on school acoustics email info@wdacoustics.com or contact us . 

Wave Dynamics Acoustic Consultants ( www.wdacoustics.com ) are seeking a Technical Engineer to join our acoustics team. The role will be based between site and the offices (Dublin or Wexford). Wave Dynamics are a market leader in the delivery of acoustic consultancy services. We work on milestone projects in Ireland and the UK mainly focused on the built environment.

 

We are a dynamic and progressive acoustic consultancy and we are seeking to expand our team to assist with our current workload. This role is an opportunity for a graduate or recently qualified engineer to join a growing consultancy at its early stage. Applicants with a background and experience in construction will be considered in lieu of an engineering qualification. The role will include a training and development plan for the right candidate to enable them to grow and develop their career in acoustics.

 

What We Can Offer To You

This role is an opportunity to join the company at early stage which will afford you the opportunity to develop and have an influence on the direction of the business. A competitive package is on offer for the right candidate which will include:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Pension Contribution (on completion of probation period)
• Company vehicle (on completion of probation period)
• Tailored CPD and Training Plan
• Permanent position
• Expenses package

About the Role

• This role is at graduate level and both external and inhouse training will be provided.
• The role will include site testing for sound insulation, indoor ambient noise, speech intelligibility, reverberation and mechanical services noise.
• This role will involve working on your own initiative and as part of a larger team.
• It will include travel to and from site for the setting up noise and vibration monitoring equipment and undertaking measurements onsite.
• Marking up drawings, reports and developing details.
• Supporting senior consultants with calculations, modelling and reporting as required.

Minimum Requirements:

• Full drivers licence.
• Ability to work on your own initiative.
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.

Desired Qualifications and Experience:

• Degree in an engineering related discipline.
• 0-3 years’ experience in acoustics.
• Alternatively, candidates with a background in construction or engineering with 3+ years’ experience will be considered for an engineering apprenticeship program.

Apply Today

Email your CV to Sarah at info@wdacoustics.com or if you have any questions contact us on 01 9125070.