Designing a specialist school where every learner can thrive.
Northstowe new town is part of the ambitious expansion plans for the city of Cambridge. Northstowe Learning Community is a key element of the town, integrating early years, primary, secondary, SEND and sixth form facilities on one site where pupils can complete their educational journey from birth to the age of 19. Frank Shaw acted as Architect and Lead Consultant on this award-winning project.
We delivered the Northstowe Learning Community across two coordinated phases, aligning development with the pace of the town’s growth. The overall programme comprises a 12 form entry secondary school, a 110 place SEND school, dual use indoor sports facilities for both school and community, a 400 place post 16 centre, a three form entry 630 place primary school, a 78 place nursery, and extensions to the secondary school enabling a further four forms of entry. A third phase is expected in future as the population of the new town continues to grow.
Taking an inclusive design approach, the SEND school has strong links to the primary and secondary schools, reinforcing the integrated vision of one school. It caters to high and lower dependency pupils and is zoned along key stages. It includes hydrotherapy, rebound and sensory therapy rooms and an aid to daily living apartment. Located at the centre of the new town with 22,000 homes expected to be built, Northstowe Learning Community is planned for growth. Our masterplan builds in the ability to expand in a logical and organised way, allowing for coherent departmental adjacencies, staff distribution, passive supervision and effective circulation. The site is designed for education to continue during future construction.
Looking to the future in another sense, the site is net-zero in operation, incorporating sustainable technologies such as cross-laminated timber (reducing embedded carbon by up to 50% compared with traditional forms of construction), photovoltaic cells for on-site power generation, enhanced natural ventilation, and natural light wherever possible.
The project had many stakeholders with differing needs. We engaged these groups and individuals from the outset, adapting as the brief developed and getting the design right first time – exceeding aspirations, remaining within budget and staying on schedule.
A strong concept runs through the masterplan, creating a cohesive learning environment for the community that will promote continuity and collaboration for future generations.
We’re proud that this project has been recognised as Best Education Project at both the UK Forum East of England Property Awards and at the Structural Timber Awards.
