VICTORIA INFANTS SCHOOL, Tipton, Sandwell; The shared resource area includes library and food bays. Activity areas are defined by furniture, much of it designed specifically for the project.


Fixed furniture should be avoided unless essential, as it restricts rearrangement. Tables should as far as possible be useful for a number of different activities. A table in a food room, for example, can be put next to fixed benches and used as an additional practical work surface if it is the right height. Trolleys help flexibility because they can take resources to a space to transform its function.


HEINAVAARA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, Finland; Attractive but sturdy furniture helps create a positive environment.

 

Adjustable tables and chairs may be considered where there are likely to be large variations in height of those using a space, e.g. if adults are to use a primary group space. This arrangement may be limited to one or two spaces to reduce costs. An alternative to this is to have an extra set of furniture for some spaces, but this will require storage. Adjustable furniture may be helpful for some special needs pupils.

Case Study: Neighbourhood Nursery competition winner, London borough of Bexley
 
 
 
 

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