A Tool for Enhancing Learning Environments

Creative wall art ideas are often overlooked when it comes to thinking about how to improve a school. Perhaps you’ve been in meetings that have discussed ideas that range from curriculum development, teacher training, or technological upgrades.

But school wall art ideas? They didn’t get a look in.

Yet, especially for primary schools, creative wall murals come with a host of benefits – they can be  transformative, provide visual stimulation, reinforce educational content, and create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the school’s values and ethos.

In this article, we explore 10 creative wall art ideas for schools – ideas that will help you see your school’s walls as more than just partitions. For each blank space could be a canvas to promote and aid learning and education.

1.   Promoting Core Values and Ethos

A striking example of how wall art can embody a school’s ethos is seen at St John the Baptist School, where a core values wall display serves as a visual representation of the school’s Catholic identity.

Located near the reception area, this display fuses symbols of learning and faith, such as the tree of knowledge, with Catholic imagery. The thoughtful use of colour and design not only enhances the school’s branding, but also creates a powerful sense of identity. This type of school wall art does more than decorate; it communicates the school’s mission and values to everyone who enters.

Tip: When designing a values-based wall display, consider incorporating your school’s colours, symbols that resonate with your community, and quotes or phrases that encapsulate your core principles.

2.   Interactive Literacy and Numeracy Walls

At Royd Nursery Infants, outdoor wall art became an integral part of their Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning environment. By integrating literacy and numeracy into their outdoor spaces, they created interactive displays that included alphabet letters, number lines, and vocabulary words relevant to different play areas. This approach turned everyday play into a learning opportunity, with wall art that was both educational and engaging.

Tip: Use durable, weather-resistant materials for outdoor wall art. Consider interactive elements like movable parts or textured surfaces that invite children to touch and explore.

3.   Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

Wall art can be a powerful tool for promoting diversity and inclusion within a school. Consider creating a mural that represents the various cultures, languages, and backgrounds of your student body. This can include images, words in different languages, and symbols from various traditions. Such a display not only makes all students feel seen and valued, but also teaches others about the rich diversity in their community.

Tip: Involve students in the creation of this mural by asking them to contribute ideas or even artwork that represents their heritage.

4.   Historical Timelines

Birchfield Primary School’s history timeline is an excellent example of how wall art can also be educational. Their timeline spans from the age of the dinosaurs to modern-day events, with a particular focus on the local area’s history. This creative approach to wall art turns the school’s corridors into a dynamic learning environment, sparking curiosity and discussion among students.

Tip: When designing a history timeline, use vibrant colours and engaging imagery to make the past come alive. Incorporate interactive elements like QR codes that link to additional resources or videos.

5.   Inspiring Sports Murals

Westgate Academy transformed its sports hall with vibrant wall art that celebrates physical activity and local sporting heroes. This display not only brightened up the space, but also reinforced the school’s commitment to physical education. By featuring images of local athletes and children engaging in sports, the mural serves as a daily reminder of the importance of fitness and teamwork.

Tip: Use large-scale images and dynamic poses in sports murals to convey energy and movement. Incorporate school colours and mascots to reinforce school spirit.

6.   Nature-Themed Play Areas

Transforming play areas with nature-themed wall art can create a calming and engaging environment for young children. Consider murals that depict forests, oceans, or gardens, complete with animals, plants, and weather elements. This type of wall art can encourage imaginative play and connect children with nature, even in an urban setting.

Tip: Use eco-friendly paints and materials to align with the nature theme. Consider adding elements like tree trunks or animal footprints that children can follow around the play area.

7.   Growth Mindset Displays

Encouraging a growth mindset in students can be reinforced through positive and motivational wall art. Create displays that feature inspirational quotes, success stories, or visual metaphors like climbing mountains or growing trees. These can be placed in classrooms or common areas to constantly remind students that effort and perseverance lead to growth.

Tip: Collaborate with teachers to ensure the messages in the wall art align with the school’s teaching methods and the specific needs of the student body.

8.   Cultural Landmarks and Geography

Bring the world into your school by creating wall art that features famous cultural landmarks and geographical features from around the globe. This could be part of a larger theme that includes world maps, flags, and information about different countries. It’s a wonderful way to spark interest in geography and world cultures among primary school students.

Tip: Add interactive elements like “Did You Know?” fact boxes or trivia questions to engage students further and encourage them to learn more about the places depicted.

9.   Themed Learning Corners

Consider designing wall art that corresponds with specific subjects or themes, turning corners of your school into dedicated learning zones. For example, a “Science Corner” could feature a mural of the solar system, complete with planets and stars, while a “Reading Nook” might be adorned with images of famous book characters or literary quotes.

Tip: These themed areas can be enhanced with matching furniture, like bean bags or shelves, and interactive features such as touchable textures or augmented reality components.

10. Student-Created Art Exhibitions

Finally, why not let the students themselves contribute to the school’s wall art? Designate a wall or section of the school as a rotating gallery where student artwork is regularly displayed. This not only gives students a sense of pride in their work, but also keeps the school environment fresh and dynamic.

Tip: Consider holding a school-wide competition or project where all students contribute to a large collaborative piece. This could be tied to a specific theme or school event.

Put the Focus on Your School Wall Art

School wall art ideas go beyond decoration. School wall murals are an educational tool, a motivational force, and a reflection of a school’s identity. From promoting core values to enhancing outdoor spaces, the creative use of wall art in primary schools can transform the learning environment and positively impact students, staff, and visitors.

By incorporating some of these school wall art ideas we’ve discussed into your school, you can turn blank walls into vibrant spaces that inspire, educate, and uplift everyone who walks through your doors.

How do you transform wall art ideas for schools into tangible, inspirational, educational canvases? Contact Design for Education and we’ll be happy to share our knowledge and experience with you.