Evolving the classroom at Bellavista

Coming from a background where school was solely a place for learning, I was used to rigid environments. We sat in straight rows, facing the front, unable to move or speak unless given permission. The furniture was uniform in size, and regardless of height, everyone had to adapt. School felt like a cold professional environment where there was little room for self-expression. We lived in a constant state of caution, especially when the teacher entered the room. We knew to sit up straight, remain still, keep silent, and fix our eyes on the board. Any failure to comply had serious consequences.

At Bellavista, however, my perspective was entirely transformed. Walking into the first classroom, I was stunned and had to ask if this was truly a school. It was the complete opposite of everything I had known. The classroom was bright, with large windows allowing sunlight to flood in. I noticed the tables and chairs in vibrant, beautiful colours, arranged in various configurations—some in pairs, others in groups, and some set up for individual seating. I also observed that the furniture varied in size, clearly designed to accommodate students of different heights.

Theresa provided passionate detailed explanations of each room we visited, from the standard classrooms to the Snoezelen multi-sensory rooms. By the end of the tour, my entire perspective on education had shifted. I realized just how much the environment, furniture, and structure of a school can profoundly impact students—not only in terms of their academic performance but also their overall development.