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Monkseaton High School
Devereux Architects has changed the way children learn in its latest project, Monkseaton High School, with the introduction of a 360 degree teaching environment to improve performance levels in the
classroom.
Monkseaton High School has already grabbed the headlines for its state-of-the-art facilities and has been commended for its green, eco-friendly features. But as the new, futuristic, ellipse-shaped school opened its doors for the first time, the pupils walked into a whole new learning environment.
Ian Lancastle-Smith, Devereux's project architect, said: “After extensive research addressing the headteacher’s aspirations and listening to the teachers and students, I realised that we had to
step away from the rows of desks and ‘chalk and talk’ method of lesson delivery associated with typical institutional classroom designs and introduce flexible multi-use spaces loaded with new technology. “In response to the school’s modern methods of teaching and learning, we’ve incorporated triangular teaching spaces within the building to create a 360 degree learning environment. This means that regardless of the teacher’s position within the room they are always the focus of the students.”
Commissioned by North Tyneside Council, the £22m contract was awarded to the former Dewjo’c Architects, now Devereux Architects, to design a new high school in Monkseaton.
Lancastle-Smith continued: “We created a life-size model of the triangular classrooms in the existing school and test drove it with the teachers and students and assessed their evaluations. Even the sceptics were converted and could see how this space not only enhanced their new way of learning but made it inclusive for all.” The innovation carries on throughout the new school. The interior is open, so you can see from one side of the school to the other, creating ‘passive surveillance’ to prevent bullying and anti-social behaviour. Devereux Architects has also incorporated ‘toilet pods’ into the design, so toilets can only be used by one individual at a time, preventing vandalism.
The ellipse shape of the school is very efficient in terms of space and land usage. It is aerodynamic and, due to its position, reduces seasonal heating and cooling impact. On the exterior Devereux Architects has strategically installed solar panels to provide tempered hot water. The school also benefits from natural ventilation, known as E-stack, which controls and maintains a temperate climate within the building. External shades control the impact of the sun on the building and spaces within.
Click here to visit Devereux Architects website
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