Designing and outfitting a school is no easy feat. There are many sections you will need to consider and ensure they are well-furnished and laid out. One of these is the science laboratory. This is an essential room where your students will grasp various elements of science through practical experiments.
A well-designed science lab will not only make science fun for your students but also boost their academic results. One of the essential suppliers you will need when outfitting your science lab is one dealing with school furniture in Australia.
They will supply some of the essential pieces that will demarcate and furnish the different sections of your lab. Here are the primary laboratory sections you should incorporate in your science lab.
Practical Area
Here, students will carry out their experiments after instructions and demonstrations from a teacher. Since this is the primary section of your science lab, the furniture in it should be practical. Fitted benches or high tables provide surfaces for the safe handling of experiments.
These surfaces are designed to withstand chemicals, hot objects, abrasion, and water. These are generally grouped so that students can easily access water and electricity.
The work surfaces on the practical area also feature storage underneath for space efficacy. This can be in the form of tray units, drawers, or shelving drawers. You can also opt for a combination of these storage solutions.
Theory Area
Based on the size of your school and the lab, you might have a theory space in your lab rather than separately. This area will comprise freestanding classroom tables, stools or chairs, and fitted storage areas. Using one room for your theory and practical areas will help you maximise your use of space and increases the pupil’s motivation for science.
Teaching Area
This is the section where the teacher carries out demonstrations for students. It should have a sink and access to gas or electricity. There should also be a fire extinguisher and emergency cut-off in case anything goes wrong.
The optimal layout for the teaching area comprises a built-in demonstration desk with storage space underneath. This desk should be long and wide enough to accommodate as many students as possible around it and the items needed for demonstrations.
Storage Area
Other than the storage spaces under your work surfaces, you should have a dedicated section in the lab for storage. The right furniture in this section for the storage of your chemicals and equipment not only keeps your lab clean but also minimises the risk of accidental exposure to various chemicals.
The storage units for the chemicals should be labelled clearly and lockable. You should also include space outside the lab or just next to the door for pupils to place their bags and jackets to avert tripping hazards.
Some school managers and principals assume that science labs are basic rooms that will not need any décor. A drab-looking lab will, however, only dampen your students’ spirits and make science look boring.
You can add some colour to your lab by using different colour schemes for the above sections. You can, for instance, choose light-coloured worktops since these hide scratches and are easy to clean.
