What is the Best Way to Get Value Out of Classroom Furniture?

Classroom furniture is a decision not to be made lightly, as it plays the important role of setting the tone and atmosphere of the classroom. Many schools purchase furniture in cycles, which means that some classrooms might still be better attuned to learning styles from decades ago, rather than what modern learning requires. This is why we stress the importance of careful, considered classroom furniture choices – whether for primary classroom furniture or high school classroom furniture, it is important to make decisions which are future focused and closely matched to the desired learning outcomes of each year level.

Overall, educators must put value into the durability, longevity and comfort of their equipment. It is important that students see the classroom as a space which respects them, and they should respect in turn. This can’t be done if classroom furniture is in a state of disrepair, whether by its overuse, poor maintenance, or low quality. Even worse, if students do not feel safe in their classroom, this is a big issue which can create distractions or hazards. Educators must assess their potential classroom furniture choices for their robust construction, so they can rely on them even after the wear and tear of long-term classroom use.

The modern classroom is closely integrated with technology and STEM practices, which need to be reflected in classroom furniture choices too. Simple things such as focus points, access to power outlets, and ease of collaboration, can be hugely impactful decisions for the tone of the classroom. When furniture is clearly designed around collaboration, students will naturally feel more inclined to work with their classmates rather than individually. It is also good to consider flexibility options, such as tables and chairs which are light and easily moved around, so that different classes can adapt to different learning styles.

Primary classroom furniture plays the important role of creating a familiar learning environment for students who will come to see their learning space as a second home. For younger students who need help with establishing routines, furniture can play a large role in achieving this. Specially designed areas for quiet reading, independent learning or physical activity can communicate to the class how they should be interacting with the teacher and their peers – this can make the job of delivering instructions much easier for primary teachers.

High school classroom furniture meanwhile must consider the whole school needs, as it is likely that any given space will be shared across many subject disciplines. Thus, it is good to consider flexibility – since students are at the age when they can be given some responsibility about their classroom arrangements, teachers can thus rely on furniture which can adapt to different types of learning. By giving learners some agency and choice over their preferred learning environment, perhaps through different tiered classroom furniture, it communicates the important message that they are in control of their own education, and that they should be decisive in determining their best methods of learning.