Our Environment

Communication Friendly Spaces

At our school, we believe that the environment plays a key role in supporting the children with their learning in school.  In line with our belief that Oracy is at the heart of our community, we are in the process of developing Communication Friendly Spaces (CFS) throughout our school, where we aim to create learning environments which have a positive impact on behaviour,  communication, engagement and emotional well-being. 

A communication friendly environment is one which makes communication as easy, effective and enjoyable as possible. It should provide opportunities for everyone to talk, listen, understand and take part.   

As always, our thinking is underpinned by research with the children’s needs as our key priority.  Research has shown that by creating spaces where the children feel calm and safe, they will talk more, learn more and remember more.   While supporting all children’s developmental needs, we believe that this approach will also be of benefit to our pupils with Speech, Language and Communication Needs as well as also supporting pupils with their learning, social and emotional development.

As an inner-city school, we are very fortunate to have amazing outdoor spaces.  The children are able to enjoy two playgrounds, forest school and an allotment,  as well as being able to take advantage of our spacious field that boasts a trim trail and an outdoor gym.  However, while we know how much children love to run around, we are also working hard to create Communication Friendly Spaces outside as well. 

Why not try creating a Communication Friendly Space at home – We would love to see some pictures!

If you would like to learn more, why not take a look at the work of Elizabeth Jarman. https://elizabethjarman.com/