How to create school displays that support learning

Creating classroom, hall and other school displays can feel like a daunting and time consuming task. Especially when faced with a blank backing board at the beginning of a new school term.

Creating displays that are not only colourful and bright, but also engaging for children, can be tricky. Here are some tips to help make your job easier.

Where to begin?

It’s a good idea to start with an over-arching colour scheme for your display. Establish backing colours, ready for children’s work and key information to be displayed. Think carefully about the needs of the children in your class – do you need to choose materials that are easy to scan for those with dyslexia or a visual impairment? The purpose should always be to create a display which works for the whole class and is adding to the learning environment in a positive way.

Now the colours and backing have been chosen, it’s time to get creative!

Content

Looking ahead at the topics you are planning to cover is obviously key, but so too are the skills you will be covering with your class during the coming weeks.

There are some resources which are vital for different age groups to have on display in classrooms. For example in Early Years settings, having the alphabet and a number line on display is important for reinforcing early fundamental skills. Have a look at our beautifully printed alphabet posters and signs and our number line posters and signs. They are perfect for creating eye catching displays for children to engage with.

It is also important to have key terminology on display in working areas. Children encounter many new terms during their learning journey. Displaying these concepts clearly over the long-term will help consolidate their learning.

A good example is the terminology used to describe English Grammar – an important part of the English National Curriculum. Children’s understanding of these terms, and how to use them within their own writing, is key for purposeful embedded learning.  Having a working display where children can add examples of their own work, and also to refer to for help, is really important in building self-esteem and independence.

Take our beautifully printed conjunction sign above as an example, one of many from our grammar collection. It can be displayed anywhere throughout the classroom, but is perfect for adding alongside a working display where children can add their own examples of using conjunctions in their writing.

Supporting learning

Our selection of eye-catching posters and signs provides the perfect base for a working display. They look great and the robust materials ensure the display will stand the test of time – so important when these will be used day after day, term after term. They minimise time spent producing DIY displays, freeing up time for you to concentrate on your pupils’ learning. 

Have fun with your displays and remember – make them eye catching but purposeful, so children are able to use them to support their learning.