At Nova Pioneer, we are intentional about the spaces that we create for learning. Children learn to love learning, and come to school to experience the joy and wonder of learning in a safe and loving environment. Our students, parents and teachers experience Nova Pioneer Paulshof as a place of love and joy where all Novaneers feel appreciated, and valued. Our teachers love what they do, and parents know that this is a place for them too.
Creativity in the Nova Pioneer classrooms
All our teachers are given creative freedom to theme and design their classrooms for their students. In the process, students are also encouraged to take part in the making the space feel like their own by putting up their photos or photos of their families. Today we shine a spotlight on a Nova Pioneer Paulshof Campus classroom – Ms Neveling’s Grade R classroom. We asked Ms Neveling to tell us more about her Leaf Classroom.
What inspired you to create the “Leaf” Classroom theme?
The leaf classroom is what most people would call it but, I see it as a classroom that I created hoping to open doors and I am glad many walked in. My main idea behind my classroom decor, was a space that would accommodate each and every child. I wanted to bring something that they are all used to but in my own way. I made majority of the resources myself, from the alphabet chart to the huge birthday tree.
How long did it take you to decorate your classroom?
The decor making and the creation of the space, took 27 hours in total. A lot of time I know but I would do it all over again because seeing how excited the children were on Day 1 made it all worth it. So, it was not for me but for the children. I believe that our classroom space does affect the atmosphere each and every day. I see how children are happy, calm and comfortable in their corner of nature.
What has been the response from parents and people who have seen your classroom?
I recently placed pictures of my class on twitter, and unexpectedly received 6,5K Likes and 724 Retweets. I also received a great amount of messages, amazing comments and books delivered to our class, from the author herself. The response I received from the parents and learners,made me appreciate the long hours I spent planning and putting this space together. I plan to carry my love for beautiful and inspiring spaces into every class I am placed in, as I know it might inspire me in the moment, but it will inspire those young minds for years to come.
