This webinar explored the future of learning spaces and how the built environment plays a vital role in providing outstanding educational facilities for the next generation. We explore the role design plays in providing accessible and flexible space that adapts to the needs of the user. How will advances in technology shape the learning environment, both virtually and physically? How is health and wellbeing considered in these spaces to aid study, relaxation and play? How will social spaces facilitate positive interactions and collaboration? What lessons have been learnt from the pandemic and hoe will this shape the future of educational spaces? 

              Peter Murray, Curator-in-Chief, New London Architecture

Peter introduces the webinar and thinks about how classrooms will meet future needs in technology and how they could stand up to future pandemics. 

 

             Neil Cole, Partner, Project Management, Bidwells

Neil begins by describing the historic lack of provision for technology and engineering, and how this was addressed in this development, it was a priority to provide spaces to support aspirations of their students.

 

             Helen Roberts, Partner, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

 
Helen discusses the importance of schools and how they are absolutely rooted in the community. She continues by saying that the last year means we can no longer neglect outdoor spaces for learning and the other benefits to stepping outside. 

             Graham Day, Associate, Elementa

The Hackbridge Primary School project was the UK's first net zero energy and carbon skill primary school. He focuses on how this was delivered, balancing the needs of students with achieving net zero targets. 

 

             Hannelore Deraeve, Architect, Maccreanor Lavington

This project, part of a mixed-use masterplan was tailored to the differing needs of every year group. Hannelore describes the key differences, stating that younger years need bigger spaces and require an immediate connection to the outside. 

 

             Speakers above, plus:

             Rachel Moulton, Senior Architect HKS