In 2017 Highgate Primary School asked us to design an outdoor classroom for a small underutilised space outside of their reception and nursery rooms that has little light but already had an existing cover. The head teacher wanted to bring learning outside and they needed multi-use flexible space that could be used for formal learning as well as informal play and performances for the children.
The designs were well received but due to lack of funding had to be put on hold. As a socially aware and community driven practice we wanted to find a way to make this happen for Highgate Primary School. As the first phase of our fundraising we have partnered with nearby OmVed Gardens, a new space in North London which has been exploring the relationship between food and well being . OmVed kindly donated their space and expertise to host a fundraising dinner. For those who could not attend the dinner but wanted to still contribute we have set up this spacehive page.
What we'll deliver:
- Build the outdoor classroom
Why it's a great idea:
Play is a serious matter. Play is what naturally happens when children are given space and freedom, are left to their own devices and allowed to explore and experience their own world outside the control of adults. This is an essential part of cognitive and social development, and a vital part of being human. Children need both free and available time, independence from adults and suitable flexible spaces to learn about their world though play. Play deprivation is linked to a variety of negative factors such as issues with mental health, childhood depression and obesity, therefore including opportunities and spaces for unrestricted play when we plan and design our surroundings is an absolute priority.
Steps to get it done:
- July 2018 - commence construction
- October 2018 - finish construction
