How is school design changing?

Those who left school a while ago may have memories of cramped, dingy classrooms and broken radiators. Schools today have come a long way since then and their design is continuing to change.

Why change?

Styles of teaching and learning are continually changing with education architecture evolving to reflect that. There is also evidence to suggest that the design can impact learning with factors such as air quality and natural light having a particularly strong effect. This is something that education architects such as www.quattrodesign.co.uk/sectors/school-education-architects keep in mind for new designs.

Technology

Technology is impacting every aspect of modern life and education is no exception. With records now stored digitally, storage space is freed up for other purposes.

Old-style black and whiteboards are being replaced with screens or walls onto which both teachers and students can project their learning. For more on the use of technology in schools,

Embracing Nature

The calming aspect of nature has a positive impact on children’s learning. For an area designed to encourage quiet study, soft natural hues of blues and greens are replacing the more vibrant colours, although these are still the norm in primary schools.

Outdoor spaces too are often incorporated into designs. Depending on the space available, there might be outdoor classrooms, gardens and wildlife areas. Covered outdoor spaces can allow students to enjoy some fresh air during their breaks, no matter the weather.

Sustainability and the environment are also influencing new school buildings. Many are designed to be net zero on carbon emissions.

Social and Flexible Spaces

Schools are designed with flexibility in mind. Libraries double up as learning hubs for small groups to come together. Walls between classrooms can be movable so as to create larger or smaller spaces as required.

As collaborative learning becomes increasingly common, spaces are designed to reflect this so as to encourage more interaction both in person and through the use of technology. Far from the traditional model of desks and chairs all facing the teacher, today’s schools are designed to promote idea-sharing and positive student interaction.

Niru Eilish

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