Circle Time in Round Spaces
- At May 04, 2020
As Social-Isolation continues, we can find ourselves reflecting back on some of the things that we used to take for granted: freedom of movement, socialising and hugging a friend. Our basic need for physical connection has become something much desired but not currently possible as we continue to follow current advice concerning COVID-19 transmission and prevention.
But what about the future? As teachers and parents await further news on the re-opening of schools, Education Leaders will be realising that school life is unlikely to return to normal for a long time to come. If ever.
Looking ahead to the needs of children in a changing and uncertain world, teachers will be aware that to meet the physiological and emotional needs of pupils is paramount. According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, physiological, safety and emotional needs must be met prior to effective learning. Provision of a safe environment in which children are able to find these conditions is something schools do really well. A place where they can find acceptance and nurturing alongside their educational development.
Schools understand the importance of connection and Circle Time is a unique way of providing pupils with an opportunity to express their feelings and fears. There can be few schools that do not recognise the importance of offering this method of embracing and affirming children’s personal and emotional needs, amongst other aspects of their learning.
Given the circle time is a valuable component of early years education, the building styles must adapt and evolve to further acccomodate this practice. A circle is inclusive and embraces the group and each member in a way in which no other configuration is able. These subtle characteristics are something that impact learning outcomes in a broader sense than anything that is easily measured.
At Rotunda Roundhouses, we are proud to have installed circular classrooms in a multitude of Educational Settings across the whole of the UK. The unique circular spaces create a magical feeling unlike a conventional angular classroom. In the words of our Founding Designer, Gemma Roe, “The Rotunda is a building with a hug“.
For School Leaders planning ahead and considering new learning spaces for their setting, we offer a no-obligation site survey and project support advice.
(Excellent research article here by Jonathan Glazzard of Leeds University) Circle time can help pupils to cooperate with one another and leads to improvements in pupils’ speaking and listening skills
What better way to embrace the future?!
Keep safe, everyone.
Sue Edwards B.Ed(Hons)
(Product Development Advisor)
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