Nairne Primary School
New 6 classroom unit for Early Years classes
Project Details
Architects
Walter Brooke and Associates
Address
5 Saleyard Road Nairne, South Australia 5252 Australia
Submitter
The Department for Education and Child Development – SA
Cost
$3,000,000
Photographer
Spruik Photography – Ashley Turner
Project Overview
A 6 teacher unit was provided to accommodate Reception to Year 2 classes, known as the Junior Primary Hub. The Master Plan, developed in 2008, defined the required connectivity with a new Preschool and the rest of the school. The transition between these early learning years has now been eased with outdoor areas providing transparency and links between the two zones.
A Learning Street was considered a priority in the design. The area that could have easily just formed a shelter or thoroughfare is now fondly called ‘The Studio’. It forms a flexible zone that is constantly changing allowing for Science, Music and Arts to be taught in groups. The acoustic quality of this area and all the classrooms was carefully considered. The siting of the building allows for natural light and ventilation resulting in minimal running costs with artificial lighting and air-conditioning barely used. A polished concrete floor forms a durable base to the Studio. The colours are neutral allowing teachers and the children to take ownership of the individual learning areas.
The outdoor landscape is simple and natural, without the need for additional apparatus the native planting creating areas for exploration and imagination. A small amphitheatre forms an area for group teaching and also play.
Indoor/outdoor connectivity is maximised through the location of glazing, allowing for visibility of children when playing or learning. The transparency within the building has now set a precedent for the next stages on site, with an expectation of interaction starting in the junior years.
The building is simple in form and legibility, meeting the school’s needs on a tight budget and program. The challenges in teaching style have been met and the school and its community have welcomed the changes.