Coatesville Primary School Refurbishment Works

ClarkeHopkinsClarke worked with Coatesville Primary School to transform existing traditional classrooms into new learning zones that support a range of learning modalities. The new learning environments support the School’s developing pedagogy, creating adaptable and enjoyable learning spaces which allow students and staff to co-exist and enhance their educational outcomes.

Project Details

Architects
ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects

Address
21 Mackie Road, Bentleigh East, Victoria, 3165

Submitter
Wayne Stephens

Cost
$397,679,00

Photographer
Nicole England

Project Overview

ClarkeHopkinsClarke worked with Coatesville Primary School to transform existing traditional classrooms into more adaptable and usable learning environments. The new learning zones support a range of learning modalities including individual, small group, seminar and collaborative work. A key objective was to challenge traditional teacher delivery modes and to create learning environments that steered away from a defined ‘front of classroom’ space. The flexibility of the spaces allows for group learning, as well as providing quiet areas for more individual focussed learning and outdoor decking areas to ensure that learning is not confined within the four walls of the schools.

The learning spaces feature two central and highly identifiable coloured pods that provide opportunities for a variety of group activities. The Orange Pod provides two main breakout spaces, one with tiered seating for intensive focused learning and group work, and the other with a central dais for large group gatherings, presentations and performance. The Green Pod allows for more contemplative, smaller group activities, providing a Media area for video recording and other I.C.T activities, and a small quiet retreat nook space for reflective learning quiet study and one-on-one learning. The pods act as beacons within the space and allow a degree of screening between the different learning areas without interrupting flow or vision.

This project was a wonderful opportunity to give new life to an existing facility, using sustainable design to create healthy habitable spaces that are naturally lit and ventilated. The refurbishment opened up the internal spaces, enhancing existing positive environmental qualities, such as good solar orientation, shading to the north, and centralised skylights, and providing additional points of entry to improve access and natural ventilation.

The design of the refurbished building supports the current and developing pedagogy of Coatesville Primary School creating adaptable, creative and enjoyable learning spaces which allow students and staff to co-exist and enhance their educational outcomes.