What can be learned from this project?
• Education Leeds undertook a six-week consultation with staff, governors, parents, pupils and members of the public to ensure that everyone involved had an opportunity to have their views heard. The results of the consultation were exhibited in Sandford Primary School.
• Some parents were concerned about the increased time it would take for them to reach the new school. In response to this, the school was designed with multiple entrance routes to make it easy to access the school from different directions. Two of the entrance routes are pedestrian-only, so those walking to school can avoid heavy traffic.
• It was important to quickly create a sense of community and identity for the new school. A vote was held for pupils and staff to choose a name for the school and a competition was held for pupils to design the school logo.
• By integrating the Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre within the school, pupils with learning, physical and medical needs are able to join mainstream pupils for activities such as assembly, story time and circle time.
Pupils in the ICT suite
• A two-stage tender was employed to ensure the contractor for the development was fully aware of the project requirements and to prevent unexpected costs arising further down the line. The school achieved a high score under the Considerate Constructors Scheme, reflecting the emphasis on health, safety and the environment, as well as the sensitive approach taken to the needs of the local community.
Topics associated with this project
Education, Planning, School, Training