CASE STUDY - Shirebrook Academy

Exploring a real-life example of how Shirebrook Academy uplifted its environment with wall art.


Summary 

Shirebrook Academy sought to enhance its setting with crafted wall designs honouring achievements in literature, mathematics and history. The aim was to establish areas that spark inspiration in students and support their studies in critical subjects. This initiative showcases personalities like Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare's fundamental mathematical ideas relevant to the curriculum and historical figures like Alan Turing. The outcome is an enlightening learning environment that encourages students while creating an appealing ambience. 


Project Goals

  • To motivate students effectively in their literature studies, mathematics, and history, employ figures and inspirational quotations to spark a sense of awe and appreciation in them. 
  • To strengthen the curriculum content by incorporating ideas and personalities closely linked to the topics covered in school classes to review lessons taught in class. 
  • To improve the school's learning atmosphere, Incorporating vivid and meaningful visuals enhances the school environment by making it more interactive and creating a welcoming and intellectually stimulating space. 

Concepts 


English Literature Section 

  • The stairwell's walls are decorated with paintings by William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens, figures from English literature. These artworks feature quotes and reflections on each author's impact. They remind students of the works they are studying and aim to make these classic texts more engaging. This display is intended to pique students' interest in literature and foster a connection with enduring stories and characters. 


Mathematics Department.

  • The section features captivating elements highlighting mathematical ideas, such as trigonometry, Pythagoras’ theorem, and foundational geometry concepts. Its modern and bright design, adorned with colourful geometric shapes and equations, makes math more relatable and dynamic for students. The section also features an inspiring quote about the beauty of mathematics as a universal language. 


Famous People throughout History; 

  • The section honouring Alan Turing serves as a tribute to his advancements in math and computer science and his impact on cryptography while encouraging students to embrace creativity and strive to think through a depiction of Turing and details about his achievements like the Enigma machine. This space emphasises the value of resilience and resourcefulness, with its vibrant colours and unique background elements that draw students' attention as they walk by.


Execution Steps 


During the meeting, Shirebrook Academy worked closely with the design team to select meaningful figures and ideas for their student's benefit, aiming to incorporate personalities and topics that directly align with the curriculum. 


Our design team has created captivating graphics that combine depictions of historical figures with themes based on specific subjects. They have carefully crafted each design to be educational and inspiring, incorporating quotes, vibrant colours, and imagery that resonates with the subject. 


After receiving input from the school on the concepts proposed for the project, the graphics design aspect underwent adjustments to align with the educational vision and values of the institution. 


The graphics were expertly installed during the selection and approval stages, converting the stairwell and hallway areas into captivating environments. 


Results

  • The fresh visuals have made learning captivating for students by illustrating literature-related characters and mathematical concepts every day. 
  • Visuals strengthen learning in education by showcasing quotes and equations from textbooks; this method helps students remember information better and form connections with the subjects they are studying. The school's new look has brought out an energy that makes students feel proud of their surroundings and more engaged in their learning process. 



In summary. 

The wall art initiative at Shirebrook Academy has effectively revamped learning areas with designs tailored to different subjects that showcase the school's dedication to education. Featuring figures such as Shakespeare and Dickens alongside mathematical concepts enables students to engage with their studies from a fresh perspective. This project showcases how educational murals can motivate students and reinforce material while fostering a learning environment conducive to academic achievement. 

If you want to enhance your school's setting, contact us to discuss how personalised wall designs can uplift your educational spaces. 

By angel May 15, 2026
As we move through the middle of the school year, your thoughts are likely already drifting toward the summer holidays. Not just for the much-needed break, but for the opportunity it brings. When the corridors fall silent and the classrooms sit empty, your building finally has the chance to breathe. This is the window for the "September Reset" , that magical moment when students return to find their environment transformed, sparking a renewed sense of pride and curiosity. At Cubed Creative, we’ve spent the last few months working on something special to help you plan that transformation. We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand new 2026 School Wall Art Brochure . It’s more than just a catalogue of past work; it’s the ultimate guide for a "September Reset" . It’s a toolkit for school leaders who want to move beyond tired noticeboards and plain magnolia walls. It’s packed with fresh inspiration, curriculum-linked designs, and the practical details you need to make a project happen during the summer break. Why Now? The Power of the September Reset The environment your pupils walk into on that first Tuesday in September sets the tone for the entire academic year. It’s a physical manifestation of your school’s expectations, its warmth, and its ambition. A "September Reset" isn’t just about making things look "pretty." It’s a strategic move to: Reinforce school values from the moment a child enters the gates. Reduce anxiety by creating calming, supportive spaces for wellbeing. Boost learning by turning "dead space" into passive learning zones. Improve behaviour through high-quality environments that show students they are valued. By planning your Summer wall art now, you ensure that all the heavy lifting: the design, the printing, and the installation: happens while the school is empty. You get the "wow factor" without any disruption to the school day. 21 Years of Creative Excellence When you’re looking for a partner to transform your school, experience matters. We’ve been working in the education sector for 21 years. Over those two decades, we’ve seen trends come and go, but our core mission has remained the same: to create environments that inspire. We understand the unique pressures of the UK education system. We know that budgets are tight, timelines are non-negotiable, and the materials used need to be "school-proof." Our 21 years of expertise mean we don’t just "put stickers on walls": we understand how to design for impact and install for longevity. What’s Inside the 2026 Brochure? The new brochure is designed to help you navigate the different ways wall art can support your School Improvement Plan. Here’s a sneak peek at the key areas we cover:
By angel April 17, 2026
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By angel March 20, 2026
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By angel March 2, 2026
An Open Evening is not just an event on the calendar. It is a defining moment. Before the results are discussed. Before the curriculum is explained. Before questions are asked. Families are already forming an opinion. And your environment is leading that conversation. The Challenge: You Only Get One First Impression When parents walk through your doors, they are looking for reassurance. Is this school calm? Is it ambitious? Does it feel purposeful? Will my child belong here? A blank wall is a mystery. An inconsistent board confuses. A wall that has not changed for months or years is an indicator that communication with the wall is not important. But clear, intentional design builds confidence immediately. Your space either reinforces your message — or distracts from it.
By Gary Boad February 21, 2026
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By angel February 7, 2026
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