Create presentation spaces and encourage participation

The art of presentation is an essential skill for today’s students. It is necessary to regularly offer them the opportunity to develop their skills in different contexts. According to CBI’s Education Development Survey (2010), more than two-thirds of employers (70%) would like teachers to make it a point to develop these skills in their young students.

Presentation skills are important for:

Communicating complex information in a simple way

Communicating thoughts and feelings effectively

Developing self-confidence

Improving professional skills

Create spaces that support creativity

Creativity engages the mind and frees it in a way that allows students to better absorb knowledge. Creative participation in discussions nurtures a sense of sharing, teamwork and cooperation. Creativity also promotes mental growth in children by providing the opportunity to try new ideas, new ways of thinking and solving problems.

Create a relaxing space

When space is limited, it is essential to find appropriate places for students to meet or congregate outside of classrooms. The objective of creating relaxation areas is to offer dedicated places that do not resemble the environment of a classic classroom. There are many ways to achieve this, but the focus should be on colour, textures, lighting and furnishings. By selecting these elements carefully, you will create a unique, flexible, creative, alternative educational environment. Relaxation zones could be created throughout campus, using spaces such as hallways, stairways, some library areas, lunchrooms, and outdoor spaces.

The advantages of a relaxation area: Encourages clear and creative thinking. Contributes to well-being. Promotes social interaction. Encourages a sense of community.

MADE TO EMPOWER YOUNG PEOPLE TO EXPLORE LITERATURE, EXPAND THEIR HORIZONS AND IMPROVE LITERACY

Idsall School in Shropshire approached WF Education as they needed a complete library re-vamp. Describing their old space as ‘cluttered, ‘dingy’ and ‘outdated’, they wanted a new modern style to increase interaction with their library service. They also felt like their space was not being utilised to its full potential.

As the students returned from the Summer holidays they were stunned by the transformation...

A student commented, ‘I was honestly amazed; I knew they were making a new library, but I didn’t expect it to be this much better!’ old library had been here for 20 years plus; it was old and crowded and not the best environment to study in.’

Vicky, Idsall’s LRC Manager, said the old library was not a very welcoming environment and noticed the students were not using the library facilities very often.

Since the term started, she said she has already noticed an increase in visitors. She said students are eager to come in and see the changes, and tend to hang around for longer, using the space to study, use the computers and to read.

Vicky also said the new library was a much nicer environment to spend time in, not only for the students, but for herself too.