The new extensions echo the formal discipline of the existing 1950s school buildings by accentuating vertical façade elements. The material palette resonates the character of the main school buildings with vertical precast concrete fins setting the elevational rhythm with references to the proportions of the original teaching blocks.

Our New Science Block provides 13 laboratories with supporting staff and prep areas and is positioned to strengthen both physical and educational links with the adjacent School Farm. A ‘pin-wheel’ plan is arranged around a double-height atrium area acting as a central gathering space and minimising the overall proportions of the Science block whilst allowing all laboratories to benefit from the amazing views across the sports grounds. Building orientation resolves connectivity between the remaining teaching areas and the Gym and creates a new Science Garden courtyard with direct links to the Farm.

The combination of in-built thermal mass in the exposed ceilings and a mixed-mode natural ventilation system with heat recovery will provide year-round energy efficiency added by photovoltaic installation and ground source heat pump supplying the underfloor heating.

The existing science teaching block is currently being refurbished and will provide 10 new general teaching classrooms and associated staff areas.