The new academy, which will educate 1,550 11-18 year olds, will be based in the Leadenhall area of the city. Specialising in Business Enterprise, it will house a 6th form and replace the existing Sir Frank Markham community college when it opens in September 2009.
All practical or vocational space of this three-storey school is on the ground floor and will be visible and celebrated from the welcoming entrance space which is part of the central hub. Three blocks radiate from this hub accommodating the Art & Design Technology, Science, and Drama & Music departments each with access to its own garden, or in the case of the latter, to an outdoor performance space. Other teaching space above is arranged into five separate year-based ‘villages’ each a self supporting unit with its own facilities – ICT and open learning zones. A large proportion of the area is open-plan with the aim of promoting self-directed learning and a greater mix of small group activities. Generally students will remain in their own villages and the teachers move amongst them.
There is also a strong community aspect to the new academy allowing members of the community use of the facilities. Local businesses will be encouraged to rent space in the Business and Enterprise Hub, situated above the entrance, in return for practical teaching. This Hub will be designed and furnished in a manner akin to commercial office space.
The indoor sports hall is on an upper level with the dining hall beneath. Sports pitches have also been reinstated observing Sport England guidelines.
Externally there will be a habitat area for educational use and to enhance ecology and promote the growth of rare local plant species. The SUDS (sustainable drainage system) is in the form of a wetland reed pond forming part of the habitat area. Throughout there is an important connection between the landscape and teaching spaces.
The academy will be naturally ventilated and daylit with the aim of achieving a Very Good BREEAM rating. However it is proposed that the academy will be zero carbon, consistent with the Partnership for Schools guidelines.
For more information on BDP, visit www.bdp.co.uk
