design solutions
wayfinding. The use of colour throughout the school’s interiors enhances the simple approach to wayfinding, with brightly painted walls and murals bringing colour and a clear identity to each part of the school. Classrooms are arranged in pairs by
year group, each separated by a staircase to break the school into more manageable units, aid circulation, and give pupils direct access to the external courtyard. While this arrangement also allows year groups to mix easily, the nursery and reception suite can be separated from the rest of the school to operate independently where necessary. The main hall is also a flexible space, accommodating dining, assemblies or indoor games, and opens onto an external dining area. As part of the design development
process, Cottrell and Vermeulen Architecture organised four individual community and teacher consultations to secure engagement with these key stakeholders with the initial proposals and design. Through this consultation process, the design development was enhanced by an understanding of the needs of the early years pupils and teachers, with an emphasis placed on the need for free-flowing outdoor space, shared resources, flexible external play, storage, outdoor covered space and a sensory room Because of the school’s importance
within the community, it was designed to share several spaces – including the main dining hall and kitchen, music facilities and the outdoor multi-use play area – with local people. Since completion, many have benefited from using these spaces for a range of different uses such as sports coaching, weekend music clubs and other community events. The facilities are also used to provide breakfast and after school clubs that support parent and carers outside school hours. Rebecca McTier, Project Manager,
Southwark Council, commented: "Cottrell and Vermeulen responded well to the many challenges, providing an intelligent and innovative design that maximises the available space, and works well in its context. Inside the building, excellent learning spaces have been provided, with high levels of natural light, assisted natural ventilation and good quality acoustics, providing a comfortable and friendly learning environment for the pupils. The architect worked closely with the school and the council, showing
genuine passion for creating an exemplary learning environment and school building. The resultant building is an exciting one, that the school and council are extremely proud of.”
www.cv-arch.co.uk www.watermangroup.com
www.morgansindall.com
educationdab.co.uk 19
Images: Anthony Coleman
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