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WATCH: Putting the fun back into learning. Is this the best classroom door in the country?

WATCH: Putting the fun back into learning. Is this the best classroom door in the country?

Lessons at one junior school in Norfolk take on a new dimension

18th May 2016, 12:49pm

It looks like the front door of Dr Who’s Tardis, but for pupils at Howard Junior School in Kings Lynn, Norfolk, this door is the way into lessons.

“I truly believe this may be the most inspirational school corridor in the UK,” said Gregory Hill, CEO of the Apollo Academies Trust and executive head of Howard Junior School. “Imagine experiencing this to go to a lesson? Our pupils have been enthralled and as a school we have taken a new step in what can be accomplished to engage pupils.”

The door opens on to a corridor that leads to what the school calls its “inspire suite”: a video wall installed in the corridor in 2014 together with an open area and a classroom.

Could this be the best entrance to a classroom in the UK? @tes @teshelen @tesAustralia @urban_teacher @ICT_MrP pic.twitter.com/yhNnwCpWLC
- HowardJuniorSchool (@HowardJuniorSch) May 17, 2016

The school, where 52 per cent of pupils are on free school meals, is already known for its imaginative use of technology. Every child has an iPad Mini, loaded with apps tailored to their particular needs. But the school doesn’t just depend on technology - it also has a traditional library that looks like a giant castle and includes a Harry Potter museum with pieces bought from Warner Brothers.

Mr Hill added: “We put the fun into learning and because of that our children can accomplish great things.” In 2015, 90 per cent of children achieved the expected level in reading, writing and maths.

And tomorrow, another inspirational activity is planned. A pirate ship in the playground will be opened by a Captain Jack Sparrow look-alike during the school’s pirate day. The ship will be used during playtimes.