Facilitating Non-Classroom Learning: Outdoor Classroom Furniture Ideas for Schools

As schools rethink the way they perceive learning environments, outdoor classrooms are gradually becoming a hallmark of modern education. At the heart of this change in learning environments is well-designed outdoor classroom furniture.

This furniture plays an important role in any outdoor classroom by maximizing space and utility to fully reap the benefits of studying in an open area. This shift to outdoor learning is not just driven by the pursuit of innovating teaching, but also by practical needs.

Apart from reaping the benefits of the outdoors, outdoor learning also tends to the need for infection control (demonstrated by the use of open air areas during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic), and the demand for flexible classrooms, especially for schools with high attendance.

Outdoor Classroom Furniture for All Ages 

Preschool and Early Years 

In the early stages of a kid’s development, safety and comfort are non-negotiables. For this age group, cheap outdoor classroom furniture for preschool doesn’t have to be flimsy. You can use round tables, low benches, and sturdy chairs with soft-edge seating to support safety and comfort.

You can also use flexible seating options like small stools and floor cushions to help promote collaborative learning and playing, to help children interact, explore, and engage with each other. 

Primary and Middle School 

Students in this age group can benefit from more versatile classroom setups to support both individual activities and grouped ones. For this reason, ergonomic desks, adjustable chairs, and even picnic tables can be great to enable a wide range of activities, from quiet reading to even science experiments. 

Modular setups also allow teachers to rearrange outdoor classroom furniture based on what the lesson needs, and durable materials ensure the furniture withstands prolonged use. 

Secondary and Beyond

Older students consequently require furniture that can support various teaching formats and longer periods of study. As these students transition to full-blown studying, comfortable benches, larger weather-resistant tables, and even standalone study pods become important. 

In this age group, functionality is important as students benefit from more refined and multipurpose furniture to suit lectures, projects, and other activities. 

Essential Features of Modern Outdoor Classroom Furniture

Durability and Weather Resistance 

Outdoor furniture faces the constant threat of damaging elements. Materials like recycled plastic, treated wood, and heavy-duty steel are commonly used, each offering trade-offs when it comes to maintenance and overall longevity.

For example, while wooden outdoor classroom furniture provides that unmatched natural aesthetics, it requires more upkeep. Safety and stability are also important, especially for younger students who are way more energetic and more prone to accidents than their older peers. 

Portability and Flexibility 

Not all outdoor classrooms are meant to be permanent fixtures. For educators looking for adaptable learning spaces, lightweight and foldable furniture offers quicker setup and portability, all nice for all sorts of activities.

For example, folding chairs and stackable tables are good for mobile classrooms, while fixed benches and picnic tables are better for spaces with permanent features like gardens. 

Comfort and Inclusivity 

Comfort is essential to promote better focus and concentration. In light of this, ergonomically designed furniture can enhance the learning experience and outcome of students. Apart from comfort, inclusivity in terms of age group sizes and students of all abilities is important so that all can access all the furniture.

Whether it’s wide benches or adjustable tables, inclusivity and comfort should always go hand-in-hand. 

Spotlight: Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) – The Superior Choice 

Wood plastic composite (WPC) is a hybrid material that uses wood fibers and thermoplastics. It is commonly used in various construction applications like decking and cladding, but it can also be used to build WPC outdoor classroom furniture.

It blends the aesthetics of wood and the strength of plastic, making it a good option for modern outdoor classrooms.

Practical Outdoor Classroom Furniture Ideas

• Student Stations: Individual student desks and workstations personalized to different age groups. Models with stable bases, weatherproof surfaces, and hooks for bags and belongings are good. 
• Picnic Tables: Great for meals, group activities, and projects. For this, choose smooth-surfaced ones with a UV-resistant layer for longevity. 
• Bench Seating: Great for full lessons, breaks, reading, and study groups. You can arrange these in rows, circles, or even amphitheater styles. 
• Modular Furniture: These are portable pieces that can be combined, split, or reconfigured on an as-needed basis. Great for mixed-age group learning, or practical subjects like science experiments.
• Shade Structure: Large canopies, integrated umbrellas, and pergolas can offer relief from the sun, improving comfort and focus. 
• Storage Solutions: Weatherproof lockers and cabinets help keep supplies and students’ personal items organized and easy to access, making a tidy and efficient space. 

Conclusion

In summary, thoughtfully picked outdoor classroom furniture can transform the way students engage with their studies and their peers. With the use of inclusive, safe, durable, and functional furniture, students can experience a better learning environment across all age groups.

For educators and educational institutions looking to invest in their own outdoor classroom, WPC outdoor classroom furniture stands out as the best material’s durable, sustainable, and low maintenance. 

As a pioneer and world-renowned WPC producer, Oakio’s WPC solutions stand as your best choice for a smart and long-term investment in outdoor furniture material to ensure educational excellence and student success!