Learning Conversations

Rethinking the Teacher Desk: Moving Beyond the Static Setup

As teachers, we’re used to making the most of what we’ve got. But one piece of furniture that’s long overdue for a rethink is the traditional, static teacher desk. It’s big, it’s immovable, and it anchors us to one corner of the classroom. That might’ve worked in the old “chalk and talk” model, but it doesn’t support how we teach today.

Rethinking Early Years Storage: Beyond the Wicker Basket

If you’ve ever worked in an early years setting, you know one truth: storage matters. Not just for tidiness, but for safety, durability, and learning. And yet, too often, we’re relying on materials like wicker baskets that look beautiful… until they don’t.

Leading Change for Contemporary School Design

At Gratnells, our mission is to be more than just a provider of school storage; we aim to be a world leader in creating learning environments that improve educational outcomes. […]

Growing Educator Excitement About Working in a School or District

Those that support hiring in education face the unique challenge of attracting and retaining top talent in schools and districts. For many in this position, they haven’t utilized one of […]

Enhancing Results Through the Science of Learning Space Design

The importance of the learning environment in schools is undeniable. A well-designed physical space can significantly influence student success, encompassing their wellness, engagement, achievement, and sense of belonging. As educators […]

Using outdoor spaces to promote student curiosity and learning

Utilizing the great outdoors as a classroom offers boundless opportunities to enrich education and ignite student curiosity. Imagine biology lessons in the midst of nature, sustainability projects in school gardens, […]

Designing Spaces for Students with Special Needs 

In today’s educational landscape, the significance of tailoring learning environments to accommodate students with special learning needs cannot be overstated. This approach not only fosters an inclusive atmosphere but also […]

Maximizing Learning Space Optimization

The resources available to most schools can make it impossible for innovation and change to flourish. It is only through thoughtful partnerships that schools can leverage the time, talent and […]

Space to Play

Play is a fundamental need and helps us explore the world physically, cognitively and emotionally. It is essential for very young children, when they are adventuring into the world and doing many things for the first time. It is a foundation for lifelong learning and well-being.

Putting the Personal into Learning Spaces

Student-centred approaches, and the customisation of learning spaces, are a crucial part of moving away from the approach of rows of desks and passive learning which can hinder creativity and curiosity

Attracting Students and Families Through Space Design

In the competitive landscape of education, schools are continually seeking ways to attract new families and retain current ones. One often overlooked but crucial factor is the design of learning spaces.

The Benefits of Modern Furniture Materials in Today’s Classroom

Today’s students are looking for adults to be proactive and craft solutions while they are in positions of leadership, but they are already using their voices to initiate change by speaking up and speaking out about responsible purchasing and sourcing.

Wellbeing for Students

Designing learning environments that focus on student wellness is essential for students to belong, engage and achieve.

Wellbeing for Teachers

Designing an effective and efficient classroom is not just about aesthetics and student engagement, it significantly impacts teacher wellness.

A Sustainable Storage Strategy

Educators can live in a scarcity mindset. For many this has emerged from a reality of not having or getting the supplies and materials that they need to serve students year after year.

Utilize the Whole School for Learning

Schools that have made learning everywhere a priority have seen these enhanced environments foster deeper engagement and creativity among their students.

The Power of Color

The integration of color within classroom environments is a powerful tool that extends beyond aesthetic appeal, playing a critical role in enhancing learning, emotional well-being, and cognitive engagement.

Create the ideal indoor learning environment

Explore inspiring ideas on how to enhance your indoor learning environment and create spaces optimised for learning.

Take lessons outdoors and bring learning to life

Discover effective strategies and inspiring ideas to enhance your outdoor teaching and learning experiences.

Indoor air quality solutions

Learn about the importance of indoor air quality and how you can improve it for a healthier, more focused classroom environment.

Art solutions

Find creative inspiration and practical advice to enrich art education and stimulate creativity in your students.

Nurturing Creativity through Classroom Collaboration

Uncover innovative methods and practical techniques to boost student collaboration and enhance team-based learning in your classroom.

Wellbeing in the learning environment

Explore insights and tips on nurturing a classroom environment that promotes student wellbeing and fosters positive mental health.