Imaginative transformation of an existing school site
St Nicholas Primary School
St Nicholas Primary School
Through collaborative thinking, close cooperation, and creativity the growing educational needs of the local community were met through reimagining the original project brief.
Originally designed as an extension to the existing 2-form entry school, HNW Architects, in partnership with the School and Council created a masterplan to deliver a brand new 4-form entry Special Education Need and Autistic Spectrum Disorder primary school on the existing site.
Originally designed as an extension to the existing 2-form entry school, HNW Architects, in partnership with the School and Council created a masterplan to deliver a brand new 4-form entry Special Education Need and Autistic Spectrum Disorder primary school on the existing site.
The design strategy for the award-winning school allowed for the existing school to remain operational while the new one was constructed, thereby minimising disruption to the school community and allowing a seamless transition for the children to move into the new facilities upon completion. Recognising this as an effective solution to optimise the potential of its own land, the council enthusiastically embraced the proposals.
The new building has created a calm and peaceful education environment for the pupils to thrive. It not only meets the needs and aspirations of the school, it also addresses the growing demand for additional Special Education Needs (SEN) school placements in the area.
The new building has created a calm and peaceful education environment for the pupils to thrive. It not only meets the needs and aspirations of the school, it also addresses the growing demand for additional Special Education Needs (SEN) school placements in the area.
The new building’s revised footprint cleverly utilises the heavily sloping site to maximise external spaces for learning and play, encouraging children to interact in a safe and secure environment.
The team established a strong relationship with the school during the feasibility stage and through construction, ensuring the client was well-informed and prepared on what to expect at every stage.
The team established a strong relationship with the school during the feasibility stage and through construction, ensuring the client was well-informed and prepared on what to expect at every stage.
St Nicholas SEN Primary School has received very positive feedback from users and visitors alike, earning recognition as the LABC regional winner for the Best Public or Community Building. Additionally, it proudly stands as a finalist in the SECBE Constructing Excellence Building Project of the Year in the over £10 million category.
Awards:
LABC regional winner for the Best Public or Community Building.
Finalist, SECBE Constructing Excellence Building Project of the Year.
Finalist, SECBE Constructing Excellence Building Project of the Year.