This blog was inspired by Thomas Heatherwick’s series on Radio 4 ‘Building Soul’. Thomas Heatherwick is an English designer famous for the 2012 Olympic Cauldron and the modern Routemaster bus.

The series, states that we spend about 90% of our time in the built environment and that this can impact the human experience influencing how we feel and behave.

This fact, alongside the sharp rise in the number of schools in England containing collapse-risk concrete, made us consider the link between the time we spend in school buildings and the impact they have on our work and wellbeing.

Schools play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our children, and the physical environment in which education takes place can have a profound impact on student and staff behaviour and attitudes.

In the United Kingdom education is a cornerstone of society, the condition and aesthetics of school buildings can significantly influence the learning experience and the attitudes of the staff.

In this blog post, we will explore how school buildings can affect behaviour and attitudes among students, backed by quotes from reputable sources. We will also delve into the recent issue of dangerous concrete in some UK schools and discuss the psychology behind aesthetically pleasing school buildings.

1. The Physical Environment Impacts Learning

‘A fundamental finding is that quality of physical environment broadly correlates with student outcomes, such as attendance, behaviour and achievement.’ Durán-Narucki, 2008; Kumar et al., 2008; Woolner et al., 2007 

The physical environment in which students learn can either inspire or hinder their educational journey. A dilapidated, uninspiring building can contribute to a negative mindset and reduced motivation. In contrast, a well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing school building can create an atmosphere conducive to learning, leading to improved behaviour and attitudes among students.

2. Undesirable Buildings Have Detrimental Effects

“Teaching and learning in the worst school buildings can have a negative impact on pupils’ motivation and engagement.” The Royal Institute of British Architects

Regrettably, many UK schools still grapple with undesirable buildings that are ill-suited for modern educational needs.

According to research conducted by The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), a significant number of schools in the UK are housed in buildings that fail to meet contemporary standards. These subpar conditions can foster a sense of neglect, impacting both student behaviour and attitudes.

It is important to note that space does not determine behaviour, although it may influence, and, in contrast, people can alter space to try to make it fit their intended behaviour.  Individual teachers do this on a small scale whenever they reshuffle classroom furniture, and there is evidence of innovative and effective schools making active use of their setting, reorganising or adjusting as needed to support their educational endeavours.

3. Dangerous Concrete In UK Schools Is More Than Just A Safety Concern

“Concerns about structural safety in schools can generate anxiety among students and staff, negatively affecting their wellbeing and attitudes.” – National Education Union

Recent revelations about the use of dangerous concrete in the construction of some UK schools have raised serious concerns about the safety and integrity of school buildings. Structural issues not only jeopardize the physical safety of students but also create an atmosphere of insecurity and fear, which can have adverse effects on behaviour and attitudes.

4. Good Design Promotes Wellbeing

“Beautiful, well-designed environments have the power to uplift the spirits and promote positive behaviour.” Dr. Craig Zimring, Environmental Psychologist

Psychological research has shown that aesthetically pleasing environments can enhance overall wellbeing. The design, colour, and layout of school buildings can impact students’ emotional state, fostering a positive atmosphere that encourages cooperation, creativity, and a better overall attitude toward learning.

5. Architecture Impacts Cognition

“Architectural design can influence cognitive processes, emotional states, and ultimately, the quality of education.” Dr Lorraine Maxwell, Environmental Psychologist

The relationship between architecture and learning is well-documented. Thoughtful design can facilitate better concentration, reduce stress, and enhance student engagement. Modern, attractive school buildings can create a sense of pride and identity among students, influencing their attitudes towards education.

Conclusion

School buildings are more than just bricks and mortar; they are spaces where young minds develop and flourish.

The condition and aesthetics of these buildings play a crucial role in shaping the behaviour and attitudes of students and teachers.

As the UK grapples with the challenge of outdated and potentially unsafe school buildings, it is essential to prioritise investment in education infrastructure to create environments that inspire and nurture our future generations.

By recognising the profound influence of school buildings on student behaviour and attitudes, we can work toward a brighter and more promising educational future for all children and school staff in the United Kingdom.

The image used in the thumbnail is Burntwood School in London, building works were fully completed in 2014, and the project that cost £40.9 million saw the opening of six new buildings (four four-storey teaching pavilions, a new sports hall and a new performing arts buildings) to create a new-look campus. In October 2015, Burntwood School won the RIBA Stirling Prize, the UK’s leading architecture award.