Our learning spaces are what the Ministry of Education have called ‘Modern Learning Environments’ or ‘Flexible Learning Environments’ and now ‘Innovative Learning Environments’ (ILE). These spaces are created to maximise learning opportunities and allow children to learn in different ways and in different settings.
Why the change?
Education has changed significantly in recent times; a student’s ability to problem solve, be creative, work collaboratively and show resilience are just as important in the curriculum as their ability to remember information, follow instructions or complete tasks.
Classrooms / learning spaces are now much more active places, providing students not only with the opportunity to learn new things, but to also put that learning into action through investigations, inquiries and real life projects.
What are the key features of our learning spaces – ILE?
Design precedents + Key themes / Narratives
The landscape design draws inspiration from the elements and materials of the wider region or environment to create a design with a local sense of place.
– Lake Wanaka
– Clutha River & Matukituki River
– Local Schist
– Mount Aspiring
– Mount Iron
Learning happens not just in the classroom but outdoors too. The landscape design focuses on incorporating fun and interactive learning elements into the main courtyard.
– Sundial
– Compass
– Linear metres / proportion
– Covered Outdoor Learning (COL)
– ‘Campfire’
– ‘Watering holes’
– ‘Cave’
A key driver for the design is the ‘River / Navigation’ theme. The pounamu trading route was used by local iwi a great deal in the 1800s. The design draws inspiration from this meandering route through the Haast Pass.
– Navigation & movement
– Pounamu trading routes
– Kianga (fishing & hunting) summer campsites
– Early European settlements for gold mining
Pedestrian focussed areas have been designed to promote community interaction by the parents and children. For instance the outdoor cafe seating area and welcoming area.
– Cafe
– Raised veggie planters
– Amphitheatre
– Community planting days
Native planting, reusing rain water, on site composting and using locally sourced materials are all ways Wanaka South School can contribute towards a sustainable future.
– Native planting / mini native habitats
– Water tank
– Solar panels
– Locally sourced materials
– Onsite composting