Our spaces
The Environment as the Third Educator
The spaces at OIS are designed to welcome, inspire and promote wellbeing. Each environment is designed to foster independence, social interaction and curiosity.
These spaces are not merely physical spaces, but genuine learning environments that help children feel part of the school community.
Classrooms
The classrooms are flexible spaces, designed to support active and cooperative learning. The spaces can be adapted to the needs of the group. Inside, there is a modular table layout with variable configurations and storage units containing teaching materials; every classroom also has an interactive whiteboard. to support teaching activities.
Outside the classrooms, there are small class libraries, well-stocked with fiction books and picture books in the main languages spoken at the school.
Green space and garden
The garden is a vital part of school life. Here, the children observe nature, experiment, build shelters, look after the plants and enjoy moments of play and physical activity. The garden is an integral part of Outdoor Education.
The Vegetable patch
The vegetable patch is an open-air classroom. The pupils grow crops, observe the plants as they grow, learn about the cycles of nature and develop a practical understanding of sustainability. It is a place where they learn by doing, and through caring for something.
Workshops
Art workshop
The art workshop is a space dedicated to creativity in all its imaginative, expressive and cognitive power. Here, children experiment with different materials, expressive techniques and artistic languages, engaging in activities that enrich projects in other subjects across the curriculum. It is an environment that values personal expression and the freedom to create. Bringing art and scientific enquiry closer together is one of our the objectives.
Science laboratory
The science laboratory lets students observe natural phenomena, carry out experiments and collect data. It is a place where curiosity becomes a method, and scientific research comes to life through hands-on experiences. The space is equipped with high-quality experimental equipment, so students can learn to work with professional materials, alongside everyday objects that help ensure the reproducibility of experiments and foster a scientific perspective on the world around us.
Drama and Music Workshop
The area dedicated to music and drama workshops is designed to be spacious, open and free of obstacles, so that children and young people can move about freely and explore the space without restrictions. Here, students can interact with one another and with their surroundings, refining their vocal projection and public speaking skills. The good acoustics help to recreate an authentic theatrical atmosphere, providing the ideal setting to prepare for the experience of performing on stage.
Music, one of the richest forms of expression, accompanies children’s development: rhythm, listening, expression and collaboration. In the music workshop, children explore different instruments and learn to use their voices harmoniously.
STEAM Workshop
A space designed to let children experiment, explore and investigate, without ever having to compromise on creativity. An environment in which the close collaboration between the sciences and the arts comes to life, thanks to the opportunity to give concrete form to ideas whilst simultaneously fostering a spirit of collaboration and the ability to co-create knowledge.
“A place for those seeking answers, but who find questions instead; for those who wish to experiment, share their creativity, give shape to their ideas, make mistakes, explore, investigate and build. So, welcome to you, aspiring engineer, scientist, artist, inventor and dreamer… do come in. Feel free to take on the role that feels most like you today. Do come in, make yourself comfortable and dream big!”
Canteen
The dining hall is a bright and welcoming space open to pupils from all year groups. Meal times are carefully organised to ensure a calm and pleasant atmosphere.
Lunch at school is an educational experience; it is a time when children and young people can enjoy a moment to themselves, to eat healthily and without rushing, and to gradually become more aware of what it means to eat well.
Teachers and learning support staff have lunch together with the children and young people, thereby helping to highlight the value of both the food and the sense of togetherness.
Start your journey at OIS
Come and discover OIS: book a visit or request information. We look forward to welcoming you!