A Fantastic Outdoor Learning Hub for Secondary School Pupils at Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn
Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn is a bilingual secondary school catering for pupils aged 11-16 years old in the Welsh seaside town of Tywyn. School staff wanted to make the most of their green space by providing an outdoor classroom that would enhance learning.
Expert Playground Consultant, Tom Hollingworth, worked alongside Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn to create a practical, multi-purpose environment that would benefit the entire school.
The Impressive, Bespoke Classroom
Our talented team of installers create a huge (7.5m), bespoke, octagonal shaped gazebo style classroom. The space can comfortably sit 70 children on the 7 internal benches. The structure is made from high-pressure treated ‘play grade’ timber with a fully decked base ensuring muddy footprints in the school building are a distant memory!
The timber roof structure is made waterproof with bitumen shingles allowing the classroom to be accessed in all weather conditions. Half-height, cladded timber sides create a light, natural space that appeals to learners and a large ramp allows easy access for all.
An Area to Aid Group Work
The outdoor classroom is the perfect place to facilitate group discussions. Pupils have plenty of space to work effectively and enthusiastically in pairs and groups.
As the classroom is situated separately from the main school building pupils can vary the tone and volume of their voices when working on projects and performances without disturbing other classes.
One Space with Many Uses
Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn offers an excellent range of extra-curricular activities. The new outdoor classroom will be used for a range of clubs and extra-curricular activities including ‘School Council’ and ‘Eco Forum’ meetings.
Assemblies can take places outdoors and the classroom can double up as a performance theatre for visitors and guest speakers. Having an extra outdoor area is extremely beneficial when planning charity events and can benefit the wider school community.
Step Outside and Improve Pupil Wellbeing
Student wellbeing and happiness is a top priority for Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn.
A classroom situated in the fresh air allows pupils to relax, reflect and refresh. Research indicates that when pupils spend more time outside during the day concentration improves, productivity increases, behaviour is better and peer relationships are positive.
Spending time outside, engaging in practical lessons with a problem-solving approach can boost children’s self-esteem and confidence.
Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn now have a multi-purpose, sheltered space that can be used throughout the seasons by all year groups. We hope both the school and students continue to benefit from their impressive outdoor classroom long into the future.
Browse our range of Outdoor Classrooms here to find the perfect one for you!