Location
Hoskins Close, Custom House, Newham
Objective
To develop a new school model which incorporates provisions for special needs pupils in order to address the rising school age population in London.
Motivation
Children and young people need exciting, accessible school buildings. Inclusive design can enable and empower those with disabilities to participate fully in life at school and in the wider community. The project will also address a key issue of adult poverty within the disabled community, itself a consequence of exclusion and poor education.
Strategy
The design follows from a need to create a highly protected environment that feels open, accessible and safe. The circular form creates an enclosure without the need for walls. The building is elevated for protection — landscape as architecture — architecture as a result of the landscape.
Impact
The school synthesises mainstream and special educational needs and disabilities, allowing for community exchange while simultaneously allowing students to develop their own identity and skills for life as a social individual.
