Australia’s New South Wales Education Facilities Research Group, a joint initiative between the Department of Education and Training and the Department of Public Works and Services, provides action research into issues which impact on school design. These issues include curriculum development, changes in teaching strategies and new directions in school management and organisation. The research group has a programme of work which includes the development of guidelines and training manuals for teachers, parents and students as well as architects, engineers, planners and administrators. Four examples of recent projects are outlined below.