THE WILLOWS

The project creates a single conjoined facility which brings together a special school, a primary school, and community facilities. The schools currently share a large site in Bilston in a former coal mining area. Combining the schools on the same site will have mutual educational and facility benefits whilst maintaining each schools distinct identity.

The site is situated in an area of high deprivation and suffers from high levels of theft and vandalism. Through close consultation with the school and local community, we are seeking to transform a flat featureless site into a dynamic environment for learning and community involvement.

The need for quality outdoor teaching facilities is a priority for the school.

An inclusive design ‘woodland walk’ creates the pedestrian circulation around the school. It connects facilities, such as outdoor classrooms, play courts, pitches, community MUGA, play equipment, habitat areas, sensory and horticultural garden and pond.

Innovation

• Woodland School Concept.
• Integration of the existing ‘Millennium Wood’ with an inclusive design path.
• Consultation and design for special needs, sensory inclusion, colours, materials and outdoor learning.
• Waymaking.
• Horticultural Garden for special needs 16-18’s.
• ‘Green’ Travel study of pick-up and drop-off for special needs pupils.
• BREEAM Rated ‘Very Good’.

Client: Wolverhampton City Council

Architect: Architype