Jarrow School
Earlier this year groups of pupils were given the task of making models of an area of their school which they felt needed to be redesigned. They were supported in this work by Fiona Grey, an artist, and Paul Wellwood, one of the BSF project managers. Before they began their models they were shown examples of architecture considered good or interesting and a case study from the Sorrell Foundation project ‘Joined up Design for Schools’. Like the work done with our school the aim of the session was to show how pupils could work with designers to solve problems in their own schools.
In Jarrow's new toilet block the outside walls are curved with a wavy central wall separating girls and boys. They are decorated in the traditional pink for girls and blue for boys. The design includes comfortable seating areas and lots of mirrors.
These images show the outdoor social area. In the centre is a sheltered area with all round access, the surrounding area is landscaped. The area incorporates an electronic graffiti wall, a bank and shop. There is also a covered outdoor gym.
The canteen includes individual seating pods where you can play your ipod without it being heard. The tables are of different shapes for added design interest. The food preparation area can be seen in the centre of a circular serving bench.
The mezzanine floor has internet access and raised walkways. The large window has been made into a feature.
The classroom design incorporates a mixture of high tech. and natural materials. There is a raised platform at the front for the teacher with a large interactive white board behind. A mezzanine floor has chill out seating.
