When Fir Vale Secondary School in Sheffield wanted to energise a transitional space at the heart of their building, they didn’t settle for standard décor. Instead, they commissioned a fully immersive fantasy library mural that would wrap around an entire stairwell, transforming a functional area into a powerful celebration of reading, imagination and storytelling.
This ambitious project demonstrates how strategic school wall graphics and learning environment design can influence behaviour, boost engagement and strengthen whole-school culture.
The Brief
Fir Vale Secondary School identified their central stairwell as an underutilised opportunity. Hundreds of students passed through it daily, yet it lacked identity and impact. Senior leaders wanted to:
- Promote reading for pleasure across KS3 and KS4
- Create a bold visual statement about literacy
- Improve behaviour in a high-traffic area
- Enhance school branding through immersive educational wall art
- Make the environment inspection-ready and visitor-friendly
The school’s vision was clear: an epic fantasy journey unfolding as students climbed the stairs, beginning in the underworld at ground level and rising into enchanted forests, mythic battles and eventually outer space.
This would not simply be decoration. The fantasy library mural needed to connect directly to real books, genres and authors studied or read independently by pupils.
The Design Process
Collaborative Concept Development
We began with in-depth discussions with English leads and senior leadership. The aim was to ensure the artwork supported literacy strategy rather than distracting from it.
The creative concept mapped the stairwell as a narrative journey:
- Lower Level – The Underworld: Dark, atmospheric tones introduced a dramatic starting point.
- Mid-Level – Enchanted Forest: Featuring Bigfoot, a centaur guarding a magical portal and a subtle nod to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe through a glimpse of Mr Tumnus within the portal.
- Opposite Wall – Mythic Conflict: A life-size dragon breathing fire at a knight, alongside a kraken attacking a ship.
- Upper Level – Into Space: A cosmic finale incorporating characters inspired by the works of Terry Pratchett.
The design was carefully illustrated in-house offering recognisable literary inspiration.
Linking Art to Literacy
An extra feature of this fantasy library mural was the addition of printed book spines applied to each stair riser. These referenced real titles connected to the characters depicted on the walls.
This subtle but powerful detail ensured students could physically “walk through” a world of stories, then locate those books in the school library.
The project exemplified intentional learning environment design: every visual element served an educational purpose.
The Installation
Large-scale stairwell projects require precision, durability and safeguarding awareness.
Materials & Durability
We used high-performance vinyl wall coverings, laminated for enhanced scratch resistance and longevity. In a busy secondary setting, particularly within a stairwell, durability is essential.
The matt finish reduced glare from overhead lighting while maintaining vibrancy and depth of colour.
Safeguarding & Compliance
All installers were DBS-checked and worked in line with the school’s safeguarding policies. Installation was scheduled to minimise disruption and completed efficiently over a short timeframe.
The book spine graphics on stair risers were applied using anti-slip compliant materials to ensure safety without compromising visual continuity.
The result was a seamless, high-impact installation that appears almost hand-painted, yet offers the resilience required for long-term use.
The Impact
The impact of the fantasy library mural was immediate and measurable.
Increased Pupil Engagement
Students now move through a story world multiple times a day. Staff report spontaneous discussions about characters, genres and authors, particularly around fantasy fiction.
The stairwell has become a conversation starter and an extension of the English curriculum.
Improved Behaviour in Transitional Spaces
Stairwells are often behaviour hotspots. By elevating the environment and creating a sense of pride, the space now feels purposeful and respected.
Visual storytelling encourages students to slow down and look, subtly influencing movement and atmosphere.
Strengthened School Pride
Visitors frequently comment on the display. It communicates ambition, creativity and commitment to literacy within seconds of entering the building.
The mural aligns with wider corridor displays and school branding across the site, reinforcing consistency and professionalism.
Ofsted Readiness
The immersive installation provides clear, tangible evidence of a reading culture. It demonstrates that literacy is embedded beyond the classroom and visible throughout the school environment.
Wayfinding Through Narrative
Interestingly, the different fantasy “zones” now act as informal wayfinding markers. Students refer to meeting “by the dragon” or “near the forest”, adding identity to what was once a neutral space.
Community Perception
Parents and governors have praised the investment. The project signals that the school values creativity, culture and aspiration, important messages within a competitive educational landscape.
Related Topics
Why Schools Choose Design for Education
At Design for Education, we are experienced school wall graphics specialists who understand the balance between creativity and educational impact.
Our projects are built around:
- Curriculum alignment
- Long-term durability
- Safeguarding compliance
- Strategic learning environment design
- Cohesive school branding
From immersive secondary school wall art to corridor displays, maths wall art and literacy-focused environments, we create spaces that do more than look impressive — they work hard for schools.
Explore more of our work here:
https://www.designforeducation.co.uk/wall-displays-signage/
For English and literacy-focused installations, visit:
https://www.designforeducation.co.uk/wall-displays-signage/bespoke-english-wall-art/
Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
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