Research shows that children spend less and less time outdoors. As a result, schools invest in outdoor learning spaces. A well-planned outdoor classroom design should bring fresh air. It also should create a clear space for learning. But what if an outdoor classroom design could go further? For example: with solar panels, rainwater harvesting, a green wall.

Basic outdoor classroom design

Basic and Eduko are two types of outdoor classroom design. They share the same structural foundation. Both designs follow the standards for school facilities. The floor area is 67 m² and the clear ceiling height is 2.6 m. The structure is built from solid glued laminated timber with steel cross bracing. The roof has metal sheets, and the floor can be finished with decking or paving. High-quality materials ensure long service life, low maintenance costs and resistance to vandalism. The timber structure is open on three sides. This strengthens the outdoor learning experience. It also brings in plenty of daylight and reduces the need for artificial lighting. The interior layout is flexible. Chairs and benches can be stacked. You can replace them with balls, exercise mats or other equipment.

Eduko outdoor classroom design

Eduko represents a premium outdoor classroom design and a true smart outdoor classroom. In this version, the classroom is equipped with solar panels and uses rainwater to irrigate the plants in the side green wall. The pitched roof channels rainwater into a storage tank, where it is then purified and filtered. The treated water is fed to a stainless steel sink or to the plants in the green wall. The system allows for growing plants both in substrate and hydroponically. It can be used to grow both edible and ornamental plants. Trailing plants are particularly suitable, as they create a compact green wall. The plants enhance the entire outdoor classroom and also help create a pleasant microclimate, especially on warm days. The whole system is powered by electricity generated by the solar panels on the roof. The design of the Eduko outdoor classroom enables practical sustainability education. Renewable energy sources, rainwater recycling and sustainable plant cultivation all become a natural part of pupils’ everyday lives.

"I look forward to growing jalapeños in the green wall," said Libor Kubík, headteacher at a primary school in Horní Moštěnice. An outdoor classroom with solar panels and hydroponics can be seen at the school. →Smart outdoor classroom in Horní Moštěnice.

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Benefits of the Eduko outdoor classroom design

• Energy self-sufficiency
• Efficient and responsible water management
• Ideal for practical sustainability education
• Low maintenance costs
• Barrier-free access
• High flexibility for school and community use
• Practical on-site storage

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Outdoor classroom design for the wider community

An outdoor classroom design does not serve only pupils. It also works for training sessions, lectures, film screenings and community meetings. Schools can rent it out for commercial use. Clear outdoor curtains keep the space comfortable even in cooler or rainy weather. Furniture can be rearranged easily and stored in a practical on-site storage room. Have you chosen the right outdoor classroom design? Download a clear overview of the Basic and Eduko outdoor classroom designs.