EA Southee Public School is introducing flexible seating to the year 5 and 6 class to improve learning.
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Principal Leonie Stevenson said flexible planning was originally designed for workplaces but had several advantages for the classroom.
Those advantages are choice, physical health, comfort and fostering community and collaboration between students.
“When preparing kids for the real world, we want students' learning environment to reflect the environment of the real world,” principal Leonie Stevenson said.
Mrs Stevenson said students got a feeling of empowered because they had a choice and a little control over their environment.
“It also allows them to change their location and positions as needed,” she said.
“An uncomfortable student, is a distracted and unproductive student.”
When preparing kids for the real world, we want students' learning environment to reflect the environment of the real world.
- Principal Leonie Stevenson
Being able to move, lean or stand helped oxygen flow to the brain, blood flow and core strength but importantly helped keep young minds alert.
Mrs Stevenson said traditional desks meant students could be territorial or possessive over their space while flexible seating encouraged sharing.
“Flexible seating allows students to quickly and easily pair up, work in small groups, or discuss as a whole class – without moving mountains of heavy desks to establish eye contact,” she said.