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COMMENT
Artist impression of approach to Berkhamsted Sixth Form Design Engine Architects – Image © iCreate
The ability to communally record ideas, discussion and thoughts associated with the learning activity using writing is also important. At Berkhamsted, the specification developed includes a floor to ceiling, magnetic and writable wall surface. These walls feature a back-painted glass finish which provides durability, resilience and ease of cleaning. The writeable surface is provided on two opposite sides of the classroom. This creates a dynamic space for creating and recording content, which is ‘agile’ to inputs from any group participant wherever they are in the room. When the focus of the lesson is on discussion, the acoustic performance of the room is, naturally, key. Control within the space can be achieved in a number of ways. For instance, where wall space is at a premium, by mounting a high-level frieze of acoustic-absorbent material. It means that this essential, but permeable and less durable, material finish is mounted out of reach, reducing the risk of damage from impact and wear at the occupier level. In other areas we instead can conceal acoustic-absorbent material behind timber slats, allowing the noise to pass through a more resistant finish, while also providing a decorative and attractive wall surface. We have also explored more nuanced spatial effects that can support the desired functionality of a classroom. An example is in articulating the external roof forms to provide central height and volume to the classrooms. When formed using a timber CLT construction, the ceiling expresses a distinctive finish, and draws attention and focus into the centre of a space, rather than the periphery. This central volume gives credence and gravitas to the voices within the room, rather than the information presented around the exterior. At Berkhamsted, each classroom typically shares aspect onto an adjoining common study area, separated by acoustically-rated glass walls to permit views between the spaces. The intent is to promote
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the discourse within the classroom as a model for behaviour to those inhabiting the non-timetabled study spaces beyond. This feature is also intended to signpost vacant classrooms to encourage independent group use between structured lessons. In addition to creating positive learning experiences, our designs also seek wider benefits in terms of students’ personal development. The school was keen to model interiors upon a more ‘grown-up’ aesthetic, familiarising students with scale more akin to professional work and higher education study spaces. This encourages students to assume greater responsibility for their own learning, developing aptitudes such as resilience, entrepreneurship and independence; key skills for the world beyond education. Indeed, entrepreneurship is an increasing prominent feature within the Sixth Form demographic. One aspect of the brief emerging from consultations at Berkhamsted School was to define a dedicated space within the floor plan for students who are actively working alongside their studies. This space is conceived to also be available as coworking space for recent graduates based in the local area. As such it offers an aspirational view into the world of work for current pupils, while presenting opportunities for mentorship and interactions with industry contacts alongside the Sixth Form curriculum. This brings yet another complementary strand of dialogue to further enrich learning spaces within the building.
Conclusion
As construction of the new Berkhamsted School Sixth Form building moves towards its opening in 2024, we are looking forward to seeing how the building will hopefully provide space to support the education of students in the manner to become independent, confident, open and collaborative learners. Skills that will effectively equip them to flourish in the next steps of their lifelong learning, whether entering higher education, or starting up their own business, with all the challenges and opportunity these choices bring.
Oliver Moore is senior associate at Design Engine Architects ADF MAY 2023
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