Schools not effective for learning

Released 21/07/2010

Teachers feel schools are not effective as a learning environment

Over a quarter (26 per cent) of teachers believe their schools are ineffective as a learning environment, according to a recent poll.

The Teachers Support Network, the British Council for School Environments and the Association of Teachers and Lecturers questioned 503 UK teachers, with respondents stating that good ventilation, lighting, classroom layout and acoustics were all vital in helping with teaching and learning.

Responses to the 2010 school environment survey showed 51 per cent of teachers did not think their school offered a physical environment that could "be adjusted to support delivery of the curriculum".

Among teachers' criticisms of their school buildings was a lack of space for students to relax, and a lack of "exciting, flexible and appropriately sized classrooms for students".

There were also concerns about toilet facilities - one teacher said: "Students are very vocal about inadequate toilet facilities, which makes them feel unrespected."

Almost all (96%) said a school's environment had an influence over pupil behaviour.

British Council for School Environments chief executive Ty Goddard said: "The survey shows school environments matter.

"Money invested in school buildings is an investment in teachers and children, not a wasted luxury. We need professional environments which support our teachers to do their jobs."

Teacher Support Network chief executive Julian Stanley said: "Continued long-term investment to improve many of the dilapidated school premises that still exist across the UK must surely be a wise use of taxpayers' money, benefiting communities for generations to come."

ATL general secretary Mary Bousted said: "Teachers work incredibly hard to give their pupils a good education regardless of the physical environment, but it is much harder for children to concentrate if the classroom is too hot or cold or they can't hear properly.

School Food Trust chief executive Judy Hargadon said: "Children tell us that a good lunchtime can quite literally make or break their school day. The environment in which they eat can be a big turn-off for trying a healthy school lunch - which is really important to fuel them up for the afternoon.

"That's why we're helping schools find practical, low-cost ways to improve their canteens. Small things like adding tablecloths, music or changing seating around can all help encourage children to try good school food - which in turn can make a real difference to their behaviour, performance and health."

Source: BBC

See more news stories like this