Surfacing
Creating an effective outdoor learning space requires careful planning and consideration. Depending on the activities planned, different types of surfaces such as resin-bound, rubber mulch, decking or artificial grass can be used. These surfaces ensure safety and comfort while being functional for various educational activities.
Structure
Structures like timber outdoor classrooms or canvas shades allow outdoor learning to continue even during less favourable weather. These areas can also be equipped with necessary facilities such as power outlets for laptops.
Seating
Comfortable seating and shaded areas are crucial for effective use of the space. Options range from picnic benches to more sophisticated canopy-style structures, ensuring that students and teachers can use the space effectively regardless of the weather.
Sensory
Sensory gardens and planting areas connect students with nature and can be used for educational purposes, such as teaching about ecosystems, biology and sustainability.
Nature
Integrating nature is key. Elements such as wildflower areas, bird boxes, insect hotels, and herb gardens enrich the outdoor space, making it a haven for biodiversity and a practical resource for educational projects.
Accessibility
Ensuring that outdoor learning spaces are accessible to all students, including those with disabilities, is crucial. Additionally, safety considerations such as non-slip surfaces and finger-trap prevention must be addressed.
Valley Projects
Your Partner in Outdoor Learning Space Design
Design Process
At Valley Projects, we specialise in designing and constructing bespoke outdoor learning areas tailored to the specific needs of educational institutions. Our process begins with a consultation to understand the unique requirements of your school and the objectives you aim to achieve with your outdoor space. From there, we create detailed designs that incorporate the desired elements and ensure optimal use of the available area.
Project Management
Once the design is finalised, we manage the entire construction process from sourcing materials to implementing the design, ensuring a seamless transition from concept to reality. We deliver fully functional outdoor learning environments ready for immediate use, with all aspects covered, including safety features and accessibility.
The Value
By choosing Valley Projects, schools benefit from our extensive experience and commitment to creating high-quality, functional and inspiring outdoor learning spaces. We invite you to explore how we can transform your outdoor areas into vibrant educational spaces on our education sector case study page.
Get Professional Support
For more information, visit our website at Valley Projects, call us at 01428 654153 or email us at sales@valleyprojects.co.uk. Our expert team is ready to help you create the perfect outdoor learning space that enhances education and enriches the student experience.
Sources:1. GOV.UK: “England’s largest outdoor learning project reveals children more motivated to learn when outside”(https://www.gov.uk/government/news/englands-largest-outdoor-learning-project-reveals-children-more-motivated-to-learn-when-outside)2. Learning through Landscapes: “5 key benefits of outdoor learning”(https://ltl.org.uk/news/5-key-benefits-of-outdoor-learning/)3. Faith in Nature: “A Dose of Nature for Health”(https://www.faithinnature.co.uk/blogs/notes-on-nature/a-dose-of-nature-for-health)