The overall organization of the school can create a beneficial enclosure of exterior space. The traditional form of the courtyard school allows for uncomplicated supervision and control. An outdoor circulation arcade around the courtyard allows one person to oversee activities during class changes. The arcade helps shade and cool the air, aiding in natural cross ventilation. Operable windows with visual access to the courtyard below can discourage mischievous pupils from leaving class unobserved. Areas that are mechanical and functional in nature can be placed in the corners of each floor allowing occupied areas to front on the courtyard.
The courtyard itself can be used for limited hard surface play activities, or be an entirely passive area for sitting. It can also be used for school assembly providing it meets 6A2 requirements for exiting.