Many of us will agree with the many education specialists when they say learning shouldn’t be limited to the study of information. Continued research explores how informal leaning environments can provide a positive impact on education and the theory if students who are given ‘free time’ with the flexibility of breakout spaces – inside and out, enjoy a more positive and happier learning environment.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework advocates the use of outdoor space as it is believed it provides a healthier and richer learning environment.

The benefits of introducing indoor and outdoor free space environments works traditionally well in education establishments. By giving children and young adults the flexibility and freedom to move between the indoors and outdoors you’re also providing many learning and development opportunities which include:

• Independence
• Progress
• Decision making skills
• Freedom
• Environment understanding
• Social Skills

Breakout spaces not only make great social spaces but they also create additional study areas, private areas for one-to-one learning and informal meeting spaces for staff, students and parents. The fusion of standard classroom furniture and soft seating can help with general wellbeing whilst enhancing student inspiration and imagination. However with space being limited in many educational establishments finding places and resources for students to gather away from the classroom can prove difficult.

Do you have room outside your classrooms or at the end of a corridor? Or can you create a natural space outside?

Here are our hints and tips to creating great learning spaces away from the traditional classroom setting:

• Different age groups will require different posture support furniture. A great solution is to introduce height adjustable desking or tables which offer a great solution to accommodate all ages.
• Pods and booths are an ideal solution if you want to encourage collaborative working.
• For older students, introduce smart working with charging points and power solutions.
• Informal seating areas are a convenient place to meet friends before and after class which inevitably encourages positive social skills and interaction.
• Outside views and natural light can help boost productivity, performance and general wellbeing.

With free time being actively encouraged and the benefits within education being proven to be extremely positive and beneficial, it’s important to remember the same ethos can be developed in the workplace. To find out more about our education and workplace breakout solutions – please get in touch Tel: 01480 869001 or Email: enquiries@macoi.co.uk

Tags: Breakout Spaces, Breakout Furniture, Education, Educational Furniture, Nurseries, Schools, Academies, Colleges, Universities, Pods & Booths, Soft Seating, Height Adjustable Desks, Tables, Loose Furniture