Learning outdoors research

Released 18/02/2009

New handbook offers advice on making the most of your design space

A new handbook challenges those involved in school redesign to be pioneering in developing engaging outdoor learning and play spaces.

The Reimagining Outdoor Learning Spaces handbook from education innovator Futurelab offers new and alternative ways of thinking about the design of outdoor spaces, and is designed to support those involved in the Primary Capital Programme (PCP) and other initiatives such as Building Schools for the Future (BSF).

"It is often easy to overlook the potential of outdoor spaces for learning and play when the major emphasis of these initiatives is on the building design," comments Tim Rudd, senior researcher at Futurelab and author of the handbook.

"Outdoor space is vital for a child's development, health and educational experience so it is important that designers take a radical and pioneering approach to maximise the potential of these areas."

Through case studies, references and resources, the handbook highlights opportunities to consider the wider initiatives that aim to improve children's lives - such as personalisation, Every Child Matters and The Children's Plan - when redesigning schools.

Actively involving learners and placing them at the centre of education is fundamental to many such policies and the handbook emphasises the importance of working with learners as co-designers of outdoor spaces.

Readers can find examples of good practice including the Fountaineers project at Luckwell Primary School in Bristol where all 208 pupils and 14 staff co-designed an interactive water fountain for their playground. This case study also shows how new technology can have a positive impact on design.

Tim Rudd continues: "This handbook will help people to think differently about outdoor spaces and take a more innovative approach. It is a fundamental right for children to have outdoor play areas and, as they are the ones who know what they want and what makes for a fun play area, they should be involved in the design process. Failure to engage young people in design is likely to undermine the sustainability of any project."

The Reimagining Outdoor Learning Spaces handbook can be downloaded free.

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