Breakout Space

This transitional space between classrooms needed transformation from underutilised empty corridor into a genuine learning and wellbeing area supporting student mental health. The design brief called for flexible usage accommodating different groups and diverse purposes throughout the school day. We installed modular seating arrangements, low tables suitable for peer learning or casual social time, and soft furnishings creating distinctly informal atmosphere compared to formal teaching spaces. The layout strategically allows clear sightlines for staff supervision and wellbeing monitoring whilst feeling sufficiently distinct from structured learning environments to serve its refuge purpose. Acoustic treatments reduce noise transmission to adjacent teaching spaces, allowing learning to continue uninterrupted. Usage monitoring shows consistent occupation throughout the day, with students independently choosing the space for peer study groups, emotional regulation, relaxation, and social time. Staff observations indicate measurable improvements in student wellbeing and reduced behavioural incidents linked to overwhelm. Usage observations show consistent occupation with diverse groups choosing the space for varied purposes throughout the day. Incident reports indicate reduced anxiety-related behaviours and improved student ability to regulate independently.