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Building schools for the future

Park Lane High (formerly South Halifax High School)

Through the course of a very enthusiastic design development process with the school, it was proposed that the new build solution would offer the only viable means of meeting the school's vision.  By locating the new building along the single steepest change in level, towards the centre of the site, it was feasible to construct the new school without the need to decant any pupils from the existing property.

The major break in slope was employed in dictating the form of the new building.  A largely two-storey structure was formed, the majority of which is below the upper level of the embankment.  A sweeping curve of building over these two storeys has a central street which cuts through both levels and is top lit, which allows nature light down in the centre access/circulation route which also acts as a means of smoke ventilation in case of fire.  At both floor levels, rooms on the exposed side enjoy open views to the south west, whilst rear rooms on the upper storey are lighted by means of windows overlooking a landscaped embankment this is accessible for pupil input.

The main entrance is used for both visitors and pupils, in addition to core administrative areas, the layout of which reflects operational practices.  The school entrance is prominent from the approach route, and was designed as a 'bridge across a moat' concept dividing the main part of the school from the rear of the site.  This restricted access to the sedum roof, which otherwise is level with the upper part of the site.  A lift and staircase then work down through the building to the two other levels.  The sweeping central spine circulation creates a natural 'heart' to the school, and assists orientation of users.

External areas are accommodated by placing rugby, hockey and cricket to the west of the new building and associated hard play area at the lowest floor level, and additional practice wickets and football pitch at the upper level.  The site strategy allows ample space for the needs of hockey and cricket clubs and outside users.

The existing boundaries ranged from stone walls to timber fencing and stout thorn hedging along its full perimeter.  It is considered that these are appropriate to the rural nature of the site and will not be seen as an 'urbanising feature' in the green belt.  There is, however, a proposal to use extensive CCTV coverage of the site to further curtail trespassers.  CCTV is located in areas of third party usage, notably in the sports hall area, where users may interface with the school's activities.  Some palisade fencing was incorporated and interplanted with shrubbery to blend in with the landscape.

© Image supplied by Aedas

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