Senior School

Classroom Set-ups 

Article by Pasquale Molluso, Deputy Head of Senior School

As we move into Week 2 of the academic year, it’s been pleasing to see the Senior School settle into learning with a good mix of energy, focus and momentum. The start of the year is always lively, and those early weeks matter more than we sometimes realise in shaping habits, routines and expectations. 

In the lead-up to the year, Senior School staff spent time during staff days focused specifically on how we set classrooms up for learning and how we establish strong routines from the outset. This shared preparation has helped ensure a consistent and intentional start across subjects and year levels. 

Classroom environments have a quiet but powerful influence on learning. When spaces are organised, familiar and purposefully arranged, students are able to settle more quickly and lessons can begin with intent rather than interruption. Clear layouts and well-considered seating arrangements support focus, supervision and smooth transitions throughout a lesson. 

Teachers have also spent time early on explicitly teaching classroom routines — how students enter the room, where they sit, how equipment is managed, and what focused learning looks like from the moment a lesson begins. These structures are not about rigidity; they are about clarity. When expectations are predictable, it becomes easier for students to meet them and harder for things to drift off track. 

Classroom setup goes hand in hand with knowing students well. Seating and groupings are considered carefully, taking into account learning needs, class dynamics and individual contexts, with the aim of supporting both learning and wellbeing. 

Families play an important role in reinforcing these foundations. Simple conversations at home about starting the year strongly, respecting shared learning spaces, and understanding why classroom routines matter can make a meaningful difference. Encouraging organisation, readiness for learning and respectful conduct helps students maintain the positive habits established in these first weeks. 

The early signs this year have been encouraging. With clear expectations, thoughtful preparation and strong partnerships between school and home, we are well placed to build on this positive start as the year unfolds. 

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