This publication reviews evidence from international research that the environmental design of schools has a positive effect on teaching and learning. With large numbers of students in education and major investment in school buildings, the benefits of improving health and productivity in schools through environmental measures are potentially enormous. 'Green' schools should provide healthier and more productive environments because many of the features of 'green' buildings are known to contribute to health and well-being. This publication explores the potential benefits of:

• thermal comfort
• access to fresh air, daylight and views out
• acoustic perfomance
• the size and layout of teaching spaces.