INCLUSIVE CLASSROOM
Sponsored by
Introducing the Inclusive Classroom
Sponsored by Findel Education
Designed by Lucy Bayliss, Interior Design Manager at Solihull Council
Creating inclusive and nurturing environments is central to current SEND reforms and the ambitions of the SEND White Paper. The Inclusive Classroom, sponsored by Findel Education presents a practical and inspiring example of how thoughtful design can support emotional regulation and reduce sensory stress. This feature shows how a biophilic approach can help students to feel emotionally safe and ready to learn.
What Does an Inclusion Base Look Like
The Inclusive Classroom, sponsored by Findel, invites visitors to step inside an Inclusion Base and experience how an inclusive environment can transform the way learners feel and engage. This immersive space brings the concept of an inclusion base to life using biophilic design principles, natural textures, careful acoustic decisions that create a sense of calm and safety. Visitors can explore how different design features work together to create a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere, from assistive technology and flexible workstations to comfortable seating and quiet zones for regulation.
Designing Inclusive Learning Environments
What Does an Inclusion Base Look Like?
The Inclusive Classroom, sponsored by Findel, invites visitors to step inside an Inclusion Base and experience how an inclusive environment can transform the way learners feel and engage. This immersive space brings the concept of an inclusion base to life using biophilic design principles, natural textures, careful acoustic decisions that create a sense of calm and safety. Visitors can explore how different design features work together to create a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere, from assistive technology and flexible workstations to comfortable seating and quiet zones for regulation.
Exploring the Learning Zones
The Inclusion Base looks a little bit different to a normal classroom – that’s intentional! The layout is arranged into clear learning zones that show how one room can support a wide variety of needs. Workstation areas provide structure for digital and paper based learning, while quieter seating areas offer space for settling and focused study. Dedicated booths support concentration and small group areas allow collaboration without overwhelming pupils who benefit from calmer surroundings. These zones reflect the different learning profiles that schools see every day and demonstrate how space can be shaped to meet those needs.
How the Classroom Environment Influences Learning
Some say the physical environment can act as the “third teacher”. Purposeful choices such as soft durable seating, height adjustable task chairs, privacy screens, acoustic pods and robust work surfaces help create surroundings that feel predictable and comfortable. There is a huge crossover here with workplace and university design approaches. Controlled lighting, natural colour palettes, minimal visual distraction and warm familiar materials all work together to reduce sensory pressure and create a space where students can settle, regulate and engage with learning.
Inspiring Schools to Rethink Their Existing Spaces
The Inclusive Classroom has been created to give academies practical ideas that are achievable within real school environments. You will be able to try out the furniture and equipment and experience how it would feel for students to interact with the space.
Where and how do I start?
Findel are experts in resources and solutions across all categories which are expertly curated and Made for Education. They help schools and nurseries get the right resources first time and on time to support educators in the creation of learning environments that help all children thrive. Findel have worked with Lucy to select furniture and resources from their extensive ranges in line with her vision and will be proudly showcasing these at the Inclusive Classroom at the show. Findel aims to support educators across every sector, every day with specialist resources designed for real classrooms, real children and real outcomes. Our supportive team are on hand to work with you to select the right resources and equipment to create a learning environment that works for you.
About the Designer
Lucy Bayliss is an interior designer at Solihull Council with more than twenty years of experience shaping education spaces. Her work focuses on practical, achievable design that uses natural materials, acoustic control and homely furniture choices to create calm and welcoming environments.
Lucy describes herself as being “unashamedly obsessed” with inclusive education design, having lived experience as someone who is neurodiverse herself, and also having neurodiverse children. “For someone with sensory sensitivities, the physical environment can have a significant impact on the way you feel in a space”.
Sponsored by Findel
Findel has supported education for over two centuries, with roots dating back to 1817. We help educators feel confident, capable and ready to deliver the very best for their learners. By focusing on outcomes rather than orders, we build trusted partnerships with teachers, leaders and support staff, providing the right resources, content and solutions that support meaningful learning experiences every day.
Today, we are a trusted partner to schools and nurseries in the UK and around the world, bringing together a family of specialist brands, including Hope, GLS, AtoZ, Davies Sports, Philip Harris and EuHu - all dedicated to supporting education with expertise, quality and care.