Torrens Primary School students enjoy lessons in design to create new courtyard

The school, along with the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects and University of Canberra architecture students, has designed a new courtyard for the students to use.

The present area is usable but in need of a facelift as it has not been upgraded since the school opened more than 40 years ago.

The new design incorporates ideas from students in years 1 to 6 as well as Chris Norris and Luke Duggan, the UC students who have worked on the plans.

Despite leaving out some of the more adventurous ideas (plans for a chocolate fountain and waterslide were scrapped), Mr Norris and Mr Duggan said many student ideas had been incorporated in the final plans.

"Something that stood out to me was their passion and pride towards the school, particularly the school colours," Mr Norris said.

The furniture and trimmings on gardens will incorporate the school colours of red, white and black.

Some courtyard features include a stage, a space for outdoor classes, improved seating, and a grass mound for students to play on.

The students also suggested a staff-only area be incorporated into the courtyard. As a result, a small corner will let teachers enjoy their breaks in the sunshine.

School principal Sue Mueller said the changes were long overdue.

She hoped to make the area "something the students can enjoy".

Outdoor spaces can contribute to the mental and physical health of students.

Education and Training Minister Joy Burch attended the launch of the plans on Thursday, highlighting the importance of good outdoor spaces for children.

"A well-designed outside space is really so important for children's development; you can have outdoor lessons, outdoor education sessions. They're active, they're engaged in their environment and it just gets them out and gets them thinking about new learning spaces," she said.

The area is due for completion in October 2016.