As a future educator I explain physical environment as the overall design and

arrangement of a given classroom and its center learning centers. Teachers should
design the environment by organizing its spaces, furnishings, and materials to
maximize the learning opportunities and the engagement of every child. To
effectively do so, teachers can apply a concept known as Universal Design for
Learning (UDL), which stresses that the environment and its materials in it should
be accessible to everyone. Creating this accessibility might involve providing
books at different reading levels, placing materials within easy reach on a shelf, or
creating ample space so that a child who uses a wheelchair can maneuver around
the classroom.

The various teachers’ roles in keeping children safe and healthy by means of the
physical environment are monitoring and reporting any suspected signs of abuse or
neglect in accordance with their school's child protection policy. It is important for
teachers to recognize that some students may be reluctant to report their
experiences due to fear of reprisal or lack of trust. Again teachers are a good source
of health information for students. Teachers can provide information to students on
how to stay healthy, such as to eat well and be physically active. It is the role of a
teacher to encourage students about proper nutrition, physical exercise, rest and
sleep, cleanliness, and medical care are essential parts of maintaining good health.

Finally, teachers are responsible for students’ welfare and since they spend a lot of
time with them, they are ideally placed to notice when something seems wrong.
Therefore, teachers are responsible for ensuring that children can grow up in
circumstances that consistently provide safe and effective care and taking action so
that all children have the best outcomes

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