BUILDINGS, MAINTENANCE & REFURBISHMENT
help schools to keep up with capacity demands as the new term begins. State schools could be facing the added challenge of creating space for an influx of students who may have previously attended private school before the introduction of 20 per cent VAT on fees, creating pressure to get quality spaces set up in time for the start of term. To navigate this challenge successfully, schools need access to next generation building design that will not only enhance their estate and mitigate the effects of climate change, but also ensure that the school is inclusive to all students and staff, with appropriate physical provisions for SEND pupils and staff alike. This means not only considering what is needed now, but also what might be needed in ten years’ time and beyond. This forethought, and collaboration with future- facing third parties, will ensure that new buildings stand the test of time.
However, when dealing with creating something as substantial as a building, how can genuine flexibility be achieved in a way that benefits students, staff and the environment? Whilst traditional construction methods have advantages, schools should consider alternative, modern methods of construction as part of a holistic approach to upgrade their site in a way that not only increases capacity, but also drives sustainability and inclusivity from design stage. Offsite construction is one such way to increase school capacity sustainably, offering buildings that are low in embodied carbon and net zero in operation. Schools should work with suppliers from the earliest possible stage to implement a design-led approach that takes advantage of features including high ceilings and large windows to maximise natural light
in classrooms and communal spaces, such as breakfast or dining halls.
By engaging in early discussions, clever design features such as curved corridors in SEND spaces could be implemented that lower the risk of surprise that corners entail, leading to reduced pupil anxiety. Furthermore, innovative acoustic materials could be used to create low-stimulation environments by significantly reducing noise pollution from both outside and inside; improving the students’ ability to focus on lessons. The next generation of buildings should also draw on the latest technology to aid pupil wellbeing by optimising the school’s internal environment, for example using Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery systems (MVHR), solar thermal heating or chilled beams. Classrooms or spaces that are only used at certain times of the day could benefit from motion or daylight sensor LED lighting, and heating systems, such as ground or air source heat pumps, can ensure an optimised internal environment no matter the season: ensuring the comfort of pupils and staff year-round.
By taking a collaborative approach from the design stage, schools can also ensure that their new buildings work with their existing and predicted budgets. For example, they may have data on the fluctuations in SEND student population, which can be used at this early stage to create spaces that can flex up and down with requirements. By discussing these needs at design stage, schools can take advantage of modular building’s inherent adaptability to implement flexible spaces, for example, with pop-up therapy rooms that can be opened-out and put away as needed.
Whatever the requirements of the school, it is vital that discussions around design are implemented at the earliest possible stage to ensure the students and staff receive the most out of their new building. Diverse perspectives will play a vital role in ensuring all aspects of pupil wellbeing are considered, as well as meeting the needs of the staff as they go about their daily work. Staff wellbeing has an important impact on pupil wellbeing and learning, and new buildings should not only ensure that staff can teach comfortably, but also provide spaces away from the pupils for socialising or quiet concentration throughout the day.
By seeking a wide range of opinions, schools can quickly understand what their students and staff need and create a list of goals that the new building must achieve. This can then inform the design to create innovative solutions, from multi-purpose spaces to sustainable additions such as PV solar panels to generate electricity or a green roof to increase site biodiversity as well as naturally assist the building’s insulation as the seasons change.
The quality, look and feel of a school environment are crucial elements that promote higher levels of attendance, wellbeing and morale. The next generation of buildings should lead the education sector closer to its net zero goals whilst ensuring bright, modern spaces that enhance the daily lives of pupils and staff. With a renewed focus on health and wellbeing on the horizon, schools should begin to consider their design needs now to ensure that their estate is prepared for future changes.
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www.education-today.co.uk
October 2024
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