The educational system is undergoing rapid change and this is influencing classroom design. Conventional long lines of desks are no longer representative of how a child should learn. Australian schools are incorporating modernised classrooms that promote teamwork, creative thinking and independent thought.
An open space inspires teachers to apply their knowledge to change lessons whenever they want to, while also making their students feel that they own their mode of learning. Furniture design can make schools more functional and inspiring places.
Download our inspiration guide to view examples.
A versatile learning environment is an adaptable space which can change according to both the style of teaching and the size of the class. As opposed to fixed classrooms, these rooms incorporate furniture which is changeable according to whether one wants to study quietly, pair off to talk, etc.
Mobile and lightweight furniture
Collaboration Zones & Zones of Concentration
Integration of Digital Tools
Comfortable and ergonomic seating
Inclusive and Accessible Design
The flexible spaces within these schools enable teacher-led modifications to a class environment within a short time to cater to specific activities.
The flexible classroom is part of contemporary educational goals: to promote engagement, teamwork and problem-solving. A classroom where children can freely move and work together is more engaging and effective because they can interact freely.
Benefits to schools and students
Promotes teamwork and communication
Enhances concentration and motivation of students
Adaptable to varying subjects and projects
Occupies available space more effectively
It prolongs the life span of furniture items
Schedule a free design consultation to discuss how VE Furniture can re-imagine your space.
The most functional flexible spaces incorporate both form and function, making it easy for students to feel comfortable and teachers to feel in charge.
A collaborative environment is what Wembley Primary School, which is located in Melbourne’s inner west, aimed to achieve when they updated their classrooms’ design as part of their new build. The school joined forces with VE Furniture and AOA Christopher Peck to design such an environment.
Before: Static furniture and limited collaboration
After: Mobile layouts to enhance teamwork and movement
See the complete project within our Case Study Gallery.
Furniture is more than a visual element. Furniture has a direct impact on learning. Good furniture enables teachers to respond quickly to any kind of learning activity.
Allows teachers to immediately rearrange the layout
Promotes inclusive participation
Enables individual, group and whole-class instruction
Embodies school identity and values
Another aspect to sustainability is flexibility. This is achieved by designing furniture that can adapt to any function, which helps reduce waste because items can change functions whenever they are required.
Sustainable design principles
Using recyclable materials and low-VOC finishes
Furniture suited to disassembly & reuse
Extended warranties to prolong product life
Discover VE Furniture’s Sustainable Range
The needs will differ with each school, but there is a standard procedure to plan.
Assess your current classroom layout and challenges
Define teaching modes such as collaborative or independent learning
Choose furniture that can adapt to multiple activities
Plan zones for focus, teamwork and presentation
Test layouts and involve teachers and students in feedback
Read our article Flexible Learning Spaces: Inspiring the Next Generation of Classrooms learn more about flexible learning spaces .
For over 20 years, VE Furniture has assisted schools throughout Australia with designing spaces to promote modern learning. The result is a combination of long-lasting, eco-sustainable and clever design to suit every school.
Why partner with VE Furniture
Internal design and manufacturing
Experience in educational fit outs
Customised consultation and planning assistance
Green materials and sustainability goals
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