Picking a theme that celebrates moving up
One of the most rewarding things about a new school year is seeing pupils step up to the next class. A wall display is a perfect way to celebrate that. A theme like “We’ve Moved Up!” or “Welcome to Year [X]” instantly gives your students a sense of achievement and sets a positive tone. You can complement this with sections that show what they’ll be learning this term or give them a space to share their own goals.
The trick is to celebrate their progress while also giving them something to look forward to. A well-chosen theme does more than just fill space on the wall – it gives pupils a reason to stop, look, and feel proud of what they’ve achieved, while also sparking curiosity about what comes next.
Designing a layout that works
When it comes to actually putting a display together, think about both looks and practicality. Position the main title centrally and at child height so it catches the eye. Divide the wall into sections for different purposes – introductions, term topics, goals, or achievements. This makes it clear and easy to follow, rather than overwhelming.
Mixing flat visuals with a few three-dimensional touches like paper stars, leaves, or stepping stones adds a bit of texture and interest. Bright colours and layers can really make the display pop, and it’s worth taking a step back to make sure it feels welcoming without being too cluttered. It should draw children in, not leave them staring blankly at a wall of paper.
Letting pupils have a say
A display really comes alive when pupils get to contribute. Give them space to add their own work, self-portraits, or reflections on their goals. Little interactive prompts, like “What are you looking forward to this year?” or “What do you hope to achieve?” also encourage children to engage with the wall and with each other.
Even simple features, like a rotating “Star of the Week” or a section to showcase work related to a topic, can make a display dynamic. When children see their own contributions on the wall, it gives them a sense of ownership and pride that a simple poster just can’t provide.
At the end of the day, a classroom wall display is more than just decoration; it's also a valuable teaching tool. A display that reflects the new school year, celebrates pupils moving up, and gives them room to contribute sets a positive tone that can last well beyond the first few weeks. With a bit of planning, some bright colours, and a few interactive touches, your classroom wall can become a source of inspiration, excitement, and pride for every child who walks through the door.
And if you're looking for other ways to make your classroom the most inviting it can be for the new school year, we've got a range of personalised school supplies - from personalised exercise books and homework diaries to reading records and more, all with rapid turnover to help students start the new year off on the right foot! Got any questions about our products? Just give us a ring on 01254 686 500 and we'll be happy to help!
