Plan of junior school at Dronfield, Derbyshire

This school was designed by the County Architect, George Widdows (1871-1946), who was a pioneer of school design. It shows many building features that Widdows introduced in response to concerns about the health of school children.

There are lots of windows to provide natural light and ventilation, and the classrooms are large and airy. A central courtyard provides green space with a covered walkway at ground level so that children can have fresh air as they move between classrooms. The upper walkway is glazed on one side to bring in lots of light. A large, high ceilinged, assembly hall provides exercise space in wet weather. There's also a specially designed space for a school nurse where pupils can be examined and even bathed.