Little Investigators - research findings on children's thoughts on the built environment
Over the course of 2023 and 2024, the Built Environment Trust's Head of Learning, Sandra Hedblad, together with architect, Antonio Capelao engaged primary school pupils across London.
In the workshops, aptly named, Little Investigators, the two posed a series of questions to the children about the world around them, specifically the built environment. The outcome inspired them both - children were highly engaged with the buildings and spaces around them.
And they had a lot to share!
So much in fact, that the Built Environment Trust created an exhibition to showcase the children’s work and an insightful report what the children said they like and don’t like about where they live.
A fascinating discovery by the Built Environment Trust
The workshops were delivered to over 450 children in both inner and outer London boroughs. During the workshops, children were taken on a short walk to explore and notice the local area, during the walk they would sketch their findings. Once back in the classroom, it was time to work on creating 3D models of their sketches.
Some of the work created over the workshops were selected to formed the exhibition, Little Investigators: Big Visions. This free exhibition is housed at the Building Centre in central London, and contains drawings, models, interviews and maps created by the 'little investigators'.
Now, the Built Environment Trust is pleased to release a report on the overall findings.
Getting children to engage with the built environment is easy
The aim of our learning programme is to help children understand that they are connected to the world around them, so perhaps in the future they might act on this connection. We think it's important to ensure our children and young people are open to the idea they have the potential to become city planners or architects.
What did children like and not like about their built environment?
It may come as no surprise to hear children noticed parks and playgrounds, but our young people noticed so much more. They were aware of, and engaged with, particular bus stops, and puddles, or benches, on their daily walks, they noticed noise, and traffic and whether spaces had parking or were busy. Head of Learning Sandra Hedblad, published a report of the findings and you can read it here.
The exhibition is open and free to explore Monday to Friday, until 6th November 2024. It's located in the Window Gallery of the Building Centre.
We are currently seeking funding to deliver Little Investigator sessions to more schools, please get in touch if you might be interested in supporting the programme or would like to take part with your school. Email shedblad@buildingcentre.co.uk
