The project is distinguished from surrounding schools
through a well-considered response to the brief and appropriate
responses to the severe contextual constraints of the area.
They depart from the notion that schools are buildings as
objects, and instead impart a strong identity at the street
edge. At the street façade the scene is set for a
vibrancy where entrepreneurial teaching can develop into
active trading.
On site building components are informally positioned to
form a series of treed and sport courts where students are
sheltered from prevailing winds. Generous walkway canopies
introduce a more humane scale to the entrance court, which
continues in various forms linking the different building
components.
The introduction of natural light into most of the classrooms,
hall and library is innovatively designed and positioned
with dramatic effect. The robust detailing and well considered
use of materials acknowledges the strain and limited maintenance
capacity of public buildings in this area. The school is
a commendable example of an appropriately contextualised
building which can accommodate a variety of needs beyond
its brief, relevant to its surrounding community.