By Kerri Wilkes, Deputy Head (Professional Development)

At Highfield and Brookham, we’re always seeking new ways to better support and inspire our pupils. Recently, members of our senior leadership team and I attended an IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) training session focused on the vital role of the physical learning environment. The insights we gained have been instrumental in shaping the exciting refurbishment of our Year 4 classrooms, a transformation that goes far beyond decor. Informed by the latest research, our redesign reflects a deep commitment to creating spaces that nurture not only academic progress, but also emotional wellbeing and social development.

Children thrive in environments that feel safe, calm and engaging – spaces that support their individual needs and encourage curiosity, independence and collaboration. During the training session, our team explored how physical spaces influence focus and wellbeing. Insights from Nest Kids (Neuroscience of Education Support and Training) highlighted the importance of sound, natural light, soft colours, space to move and a connection to nature. These ideas were at the heart of our Year 4 classroom redesign, and we worked closely with our Maintenance Team and Domestic Manager to bring the designs to life.

The classrooms feature neutral wall colours which provide a calming backdrop, alongside purposeful displays that support learning without creating visual clutter. Bright, busy walls can be overstimulating, especially for children with sensory sensitivities – so we’ve focused on simplicity and clarity.

To enhance comfort, we’ve installed soft daylight lighting to reduce harsh glare, fitted new blinds to manage sun exposure, and added carpet tiles and acoustic panels to minimise background noise. We’ve also introduced plants to bring the calming influence of nature indoors. These physical changes contribute to a more focused, comfortable environment where children can concentrate, feel at ease and thrive.

Recognising that cluttered spaces can increase anxiety and impact attention, we’ve included brand-new storage systems in each classroom. These ensure that materials are kept out of sight, maintaining a clean and orderly space. In addition, each child has an individual storage system, encouraging personal responsibility, organisation and independence, skills that benefit them both inside and outside the classroom.

Each room has been thoughtfully zoned to cater to a variety of learning needs. There is a main learning area for whole-class teaching, a calm or quiet space for sensory breaks and emotional regulation and a small group or one-to-one support area designed for more focused or personalised learning. These zones allow children to access the type of support they need in the moment, making the space adaptable and inclusive.

Our goal throughout this project has been to create learning spaces that not only meet the needs of today’s pupils but also look ahead to the future, with environments that inspire curiosity, support focus and adapt as our children grow. These transformations are far more than just aesthetic; they reflect a heartfelt commitment to giving every child the best possible foundation for learning, development and personal growth.