A SCHOOL has transformed what was once a traditional classroom into a futuristic learning space, with touch screens, a green screen, virtual reality and augmented reality just some of its newest features.

The ‘Future Classroom’ launched in Shaftesbury School last week, offering a new and technology-focussed learning experience for all pupils.

Specialising in STEM subjects in particular - Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics - the school says it is one of ten in the country which is trialling the future classroom technology, and the school’s lead teacher of innovation in teaching and learning Alex More said it has launched “at a good time”.

Speaking to the Journal Alex said: “We’re using this technology to improve and make learning more interesting, it’s just really exciting to be bringing this innovation and a new layer of teaching to the school.

"Before Covid-19 we were moving in this direction, the world is changing and fast because of technology and we need to embrace that.”

He added: “We want students to be creators of knowledge rather than consumers, so it’s all about getting students to engage with this technology and make that divide from the older model.

“There’s nothing wrong with the older traditional methods of teaching and there is a place for it, but we want to use this technology to continue embedding knowledge and skills.”

Alex said that around 40 members of staff have already been trained within the school to use the new classroom, and pupils are “excited to try something different”.

Alongside Alex and lead practitioner Olly Cooper, sponsors Epson, CatchBox, Gratnells, Biotecture and SamComs Innovation are involved with bringing the project to life.

The classroom is equipped with an Epson projector, Mozaik 3D software and a visual board, as well as speaker and document cameras.

Alongside the launch of the classroom, 12 students have also volunteered to be part of the ‘Experimental Class of Tomorrow’ case study, which has a focus on learning about issues facing the planet.

External industries across the world have been in contact with the school to hear about the project, with Alex describing the global response as “phenomenal”.

He added: “This is all in the experimental stage still, but [the classroom] has been amazing so far, better than what was advertised, and it’s had brilliant support from teachers, staff and the students, who are the most important part.”