Extra work space is useful so that equipment can be set out round the activity being undertaken. Lighting Care should be taken to ensure there is plenty of light in the room from a variety of sources but with no direct sunlight. Overhead natural lighting is a real bonus, particularly with blinds to filter sunlight. For those pupils with problems associated with photophobia it is helpful if the lights can be dimmed to give an even but lower light level. Extra light can be usefully provided by anglepoise halogen lights, both to illuminate direct observation activities and for detailed work on specific tasks.
Furniture Sloping desktops are useful to help with posture and light.
Tools These should be kept in clearly defined areas with large print labels as necessary. If sharp tools are to be used with pupils who work with their faces close to the task, safe procedures should be insisted on and carefully monitored. Charcoal, felt tip pens, soft drawing pencils all help to make activities more easily seen. Fine line black pens give a sharp clear line ideal for detail work and are much clearer than most pencils. They add a new dimension to what is possible for partially sighted pupils.