The extension required space for an additional form of entry due to the changing demographic of the area. The foundation areas were identified as a particular area of the existing school which was not efficient. For these reasons a new purpose built foundation unit was proposed with its own dedicated external play courtyard. This allowed many of the existing classrooms to be returned to key stage teaching, therefore only requiring three additional new build classrooms to accommodate an extra form of entry across the school.
Timescales were such that some new classrooms were required very quickly as the school had already taken an additional bulge class. Therefore the school extension was split between two main new build phases, with refurbishment works slotted between terms and outside of school hours. The design of the new build elements have been developed as prefabricated timber frame pitched roof extensions which work sympathetically with the existing building and its surrounding context while also incorporating contemporary and robust brick elevations and clean plain clay tile roof detailing.
All of the new spaces enjoy high vaulted ceilings with north facing rooflights for good quality day lighting and natural ventilation. Prefabrication allowed the building to be erected extremely quickly on site and with the minimum of disruption to the school. It has also proven to be good value of money with up front design and factory fabrication costs being absorbed by the increased efficiency of site works.
Photography by Simon Kennedy
