The project brief was for a stand-alone post-16 centre to enhance the existing facilities within the school and create a sustainable building to inspire and attract students and staff. As well as key staff, sixth form pupils were consulted throughout on the proposals. The building was designed to cater for the current 140 sixth form students, with a view to accommodating 190 students by 2013 with a flexible layout.

Accommodation includes a large open plan common room and kitchen, a resource centre, two ICT suites, a quiet study area, conference room and administration offices. The scheme was developed to fit the unusual shape of the green field site and offers views to the surrounding countryside. Sustainability was a high priority when developing the scheme and the design incorporates air source heat pump heating and cooling, rainwater harvesting and an intelligent building management system.

The project won the LABC West of England Building Excellence Award for Best Educational Building 2009. The School is delighted with the building which fully satisfies their brief and exceeds their expectations.  School Bursar John Lawrence said “we all knew the building was something special but gaining this award is the icing on the cake and confirms that we have an inspirational building – one that will inspire students and staff for years to come”.