CASE STUDY: GRANTHAM COLLEGE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
The new, purpose-built Learning Development Centre at Grantham College, Lincolnshire has revitalised a 1950s building and provided a bespoke teaching space for those with learning difficulties or disabilities. Here, architect James Badley of rg+p Ltd discusses the design considerations given to complete such a scheme and how his brief was to seamlessly blend academics with accessibility…
“There is an ongoing masterplan to upgrade Grantham College’s facilities and consolidate efficiency across three campuses to enable the continued delivery of top class, inclusive education to the community. One of the first phases in this masterplan was to create a dedicated suite of facilities for students with learning difficulties or disabilities and allow them to continue their studies in an integrated environment. To achieve this, a £934,000 grant was secured from the Education Funding Agency and work could begin remodelling part of the existing college.
“The space earmarked for the new Learning Development Centre was the ground floor of a larger building, meaning its design had to adapt around existing structures and retain a sense of connectivity whilst also providing the degree of separation necessary to suit specific learning requirements – a delicate balance.
“Initially consideration was given as to how to create the best learning environment for students. Externally, the landscape was designed to avoid an imposing or institutional feel and from the inside, we ensured the provision of as much natural light as possible to overlook the rural, green aspect together with a rear courtyard area for use in summer months.
“Accessibility and inclusivity were the next points. With its close proximity to the main hub of the college, the Learning Development Centre had to create a welcoming environment to encourage crossover between the students whilst also providing adequate physical space for disabled access. The key for this part of the design was to be discreet; ensuring corridors and door frames would be wide enough for example, yet retain a similar flow and features to the main college learning spaces – the colour palette was significant in achieving this. In addition, we also ensured the more practical elements such as lifts and ramps were designed into the landscape and overall structure, meaning there would be no retrofit requirements or unsightly ‘add-ons’ that could appear as a careless afterthought.
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“The result of these considerations, alongside those of safety and security, has been the creation of a homely, pastoral environment which is conducive not just to academic learning but also for life skills, confidence and friendship. In addition to its specialist classrooms, IT suite, first aid and physiotherapy rooms, the Learning Development Centre also features a personal care area, multi-sensory room and adapted training kitchen to teach independent living. A dedicated care service, Day Break, now operates throughout the year from the Centre, offering leisure activities and support to young people.
“Looking ahead, the next phase for this state-of-the-art facility, which was officially opened by the Minister of State for Skills, Nick Boles MP, is to create a sensory garden for students. Incorporating kinetic sculptures and wind chimes to help stimulate the different senses, it is hoped this area will complement the overall learning experience. For the College, the masterplan has been approved by South Kesteven District Council and the next stage is to discharge the reserved matters for phase 1 of the development, which is due to start on site in April 2016. So, all in all, a very bright future ahead.”
rg+p has over 30 years’ experience delivering award-winning schemes across the UK from its offices in Leicester and London. James Badley leads the practice’s education division, of which the Grantham College masterplan is the flagship scheme.
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