6 Essential Elements for a Versatile Outdoor Classroom

What makes an outdoor classroom thrive?

While every school and class has different goals and needs for their outdoor classroom, read on to discover six elements that provide a framework for learning and turn an outdoor space into an outdoor classroom!

1. Surfacing

TrueTop pour-in-place rubber surfacing is accessible, clean, attractive, and customizable. Available in a range of colours, custom inlay art offers the opportunity to feature a school logo or incorporate graphics that can be used for instructional purposes.

2. Seating

Amphitheatre-style or bench seating allows for traditional group instruction. Comfortable and accessible options minimize distractions, keeping the focus on learning!

3. Shelter

Create a versatile classroom for all seasons. Shade structures offer protection from the elements year-round, allowing learning and outdoor exploration to continue, no matter the weather.

4. Work Stations

Proper surfaces for students to write and create in small groups or individually are key to creating a productive and educational outdoor classroom. Practical workstations help create definition between outdoor space for play and outdoor space for learning.

5. Musical Elements

Music class in the great outdoors! A musical education has many benefits in school-aged children – increasing fine and gross motor skills, confidence, memory and even mathematics and logic. Harness these benefits in the outdoor classroom by including versatile and durable musical elements. These additions can be used for individual exploration, as part of a structured lesson, or for collaborative group work.

6. Curriculum-Specific Stations

Emphasize STEM subjects, make room for artistic expression, or engage students in self-regulating sensory play. Versatility is key – consider multi-use elements that can facilitate multiple subjects and learning competencies in one, such as an acrylic panel which can be used for large-scale art projects, as part of a dramatic production, or in place of a traditional white/blackboard for instructional purposes.

With our roster of fantastic and trusted suppliers, the possibilities for your outdoor classroom are endless! Need something specific? Connect with your local representative today to discuss your goals or requirements and our skilled and creative team can help you find the perfect solution.