Outdoor learning is an important extension to the school curriculum. External classrooms or learning spaces are one of the items that most schools ask for when there is the chance to remodel or have a new school. This applies equally to primary, special and secondary school.
However, all too often people think of enclosed spaces as green houses or poly tunnels. In asking Solardome to contribute some examples of their designs, we were keen to show that some schools have indeed been really creative in how these innovative structures are being used.
However, landscape design and environments are one of the areas that are most easily ‘value engineered’ once budget costs come in to the equation. It takes strong leadership to state that it is important and is a priority for the school. It is about learning everywhere, not just in a 60m2 classroom.
Thinking INSIDE the DOME
Right now schools across the country are striving to create new and improved outdoor learning experiences in line with OFSTED and Department of Education guidance.
These two enormously influential bodies say that learning outside the traditional classroom has an overwhelmingly positive impact in terms of raising attainment, improving behaviour and increasing motivation.
