The Outdoor Classroom
Primary School, [Leytonstone]
Project type
Outdoor learning environment / placemaking / shade activation
The Starting Point
A disused edge of playground:
Compacted mud
Old seating
Heavy shade
Overrun and avoided
Nothing successfully grew due to trampling and low light.
Concept
Reclaim the edge as a dedicated outdoor classroom — not a leftover space.
Design Approach
Work with teachers to decide how best to use the space
Create visual immersion through nature murals
Introduce covered bench workspace
Add living willow sculpture as focal point and seasonal marker
Frame the area as a learning threshold between built and natural environment
Rather than fight the shade, the design embraced enclosure and calm.
Outcome
A semi-wild, immersive space that:
Encourages exploration and quiet retreat
Supports biodiversity in a shaded environment
Validates children’s instinctive use of space
Integrates ecological function with wellbeing design
This project demonstrates working with existing ecology and behaviour rather than imposing form.