Our Innovators
Innovators shaping the future of education
Through these collaborations we continue to adapt and evolve
We are privileged to work with some of the leading minds in education. Those who are defining the future of learning and teaching, and leading the way in researching and reimagining more effective, sustainable and inclusive design solutions in the spaces and places in which young people learn.
These collaborations blend our dedication to creating versatile storage solutions with innovative approaches to current and developing educational practice. More importantly these strong collaborative approaches reinforce a shared belief that the school and the consumer need to be more directly involved as part of the design thinking process and product evaluation. We’re proud to work with these pioneers, each bringing a unique perspective that has enriched our work across a wider range of clients in the education sector.
Terry White (BPhil, MEd, FRSA)
Terry’s professional training is that of a teacher and he has extensive leadership experience in Schools and Community Colleges as a Headteacher and Principal. Terry has worked in the public and private sectors of education within the UK and internationally. The focus for all his work has been improving the learning outcomes and life chances for all young people.
Through learning-led design he’s ensured that there is a strong emphasis on learning and teaching and the personal, emotional and social development of learners and all staff when designing new school facilities. The relationship between pedagogy and space matters and the evidence is now clear that the spaces and places in which we all learn will improve learning outcomes and the wellbeing for everyone.
He has contributed to many educational publications and research projects. His practical experience is that all staff and communities need to be fully involved in the design of educational facilities and that design professionals need to work in partnership to make this happen. This was his rationale for working collaboratively to publish ‘Planning Learning Spaces’.
Terry is very proud to have played a role in developing the ‘Planning Learning Spaces in Practice Design Framework’. Working with Bhavini and the Planning Learning Spaces Team, they have now established a successful and reflective approach to work with schools to ensure they are the creators, not just the consumers, of the spaces and places that they design for their future.
Bhavini pandya
Education is our greatest asset, and its potential is limitless. With a decade of teaching experience and her current role as Director of Planning Learning Spaces in Practice, Bhavini understands that nurturing a thriving learning environment demands our collective effort. If we come together, we can harness our creativity and knowledge to empower every student and educator.
Her journey into educational leadership began as a teacher, where she observed challenges in different learning spaces and realised the need for a new approach. Through PLSiP, Bhavini prioritises classroom design that promotes inclusivity and creativity, ensuring educators’ voices are central to the process. Her initiative is built on collaboration, dedicating 100% of the planning frameworks to educator involvement. She shares insights through workshops and publications, including her chapter in ‘Design for Education: Spaces and Tools for Learning’, emphasising the importance of educator engagement. Ultimately, Bhavini envisions an educational landscape where every student and educator thrive. By working together, she believes we can unlock the full potential of education and create a brighter future for all.
DR Robert Dillon
Robert – or Bob as he is more commonly known – is a teacher, thought leader and award-winning education author who has turned his passion for education into a career spanning design, technology and innovation, as he offers his expert insight and knowledge to the education sector globally.
Visit Dr Robert Dillon’s website
Backed up by in-the-classroom experience – where he noticed that the spaces he created inspired his students to gather and create, even out of class time – his focus as a school designer now is helping others to form inspiring spaces where creative sparks fly and students can grow and thrive. Through partnering with schools, architects and designers, his goal is to develop learning-first solutions to any challenge.
If you’re looking for inspiration to transform your classroom design for better student learning and wellness, Bob has authored books that lay out where to start and offer real solutions for creating impactful spaces. Plus, he’s collected inspiring stories from educators who’ve transformed their environments into hubs of creativity and growth. It’s all about making meaningful changes that resonate. Let’s rethink what’s possible.
Professor Peter Barrett
Our collaboration with Professor Peter Barrett, independent researcher in school design and Co-author of Clever Classrooms, has been instrumental in our Planning Learning Spaces in Practice consultancy project. Professor Barrett’s research underscores the profound impact that classroom design can have on students’ academic performance. Working together, we have consulted and applied his groundbreaking insights to create more engaging, inspiring, and productive learning environments.
Professor Stephen Heppell
An expert specialising in the use of ICT in education and championing better learning environments, Professor Stephen Heppell is a luminary in the art of creating spaces that stimulate learning. Professor Heppell co-developed the Learnometer with Gratnells, an innovative device that measures classroom environments to ensure optimal conditions for learning. This partnership reinforces our shared commitment to making classrooms not just functional, but truly effective spaces that foster intellectual growth and creativity.
Visit Professor Stephen Heppell’s website
Through these collaborations, we continue to adapt and evolve, ensuring that our storage solutions not only meet the practical needs of educational environments but also contribute to the evolving landscape of teaching and learning.
Our mission is to be more than just a provider of school storage; we aim to be a world- leader in creating learning environments that improve educational outcomes. We recognise the important role that schools play in developing future leaders of learning and our Planning Learning Spaces in Practice framework is designed to work directly in partnership with schools to achieve this.
Find out more about us
Heritage
From its humble beginnings in London’s East End to becoming a global leader in school tray storage, Gratnells carries on the legacy of William Hudson, continuing to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of the market.
Sustainability, Community, Education
We’re crafting a legacy that nurtures both the world we live in and the educational spaces we shape. From our manufacturing processes to the materials we choose, every decision we make is an embodiment of our commitment to a brighter, cleaner future.
Meet the team
We believe in maintaining a strong connection with our customers. We’re here to listen, assist, and guide you towards the best solutions for your needs. Whether you’re seeking advice on the best trays for your classroom or looking to incorporate our trays into your product line, we’re happy to help
Case Study
Trumpington Park Primary School
We recently supported staff at Trumpington Park Primary School to redesign their current year 4 classroom.
Case Study
Wesley Primary School
How one New Zealand school put community, ethos and culture at the heart of their school design.