Imagine how the climate crisis generation could help to green schools

Project Insight

Our initial commission for Rosendale School was to refurbish classrooms on a shoe-string over the summer holidays. Through our consultation process we asked more probing questions about the pressures this over-subscribed south London school was facing in a challenging funding environment. So, in parallel to the initial refurbishment, we helped the school to devise a future plan to improve the school organisation, building fabric, outdoor space and energy systems; the plan continues to enable smart decision-making and support funding applications.

Project Idea

As part of the Research School Network, Rosendale’s teachers were keen that any refurbishment was informed by latest research evidence on cooperative learning environments; those that enable self-guided or group learning.

This modern teaching method might seem at odds with Rosendale’s Grade 2 Victorian building, but we embraced the heritage features as an asset.

Project Design

The original building was designed with passive energy principles and robust natural materials. Lofty ceilings and sash windows enable good daylight and natural ventilation. Exposing covered up features such as glazed brick, hardwood floors, fireplaces created rooms with character to fuel children’s imagination while easily accommodating modern furniture, lighting and IT. The result is a non-toxic, low energy, joyful classroom supporting teachers and pupil’s well-being.

Each phase has continued to improved inclusion and wellbeing. Problematic toilets have been transformed into attractive, safe places easily supervised by teachers and respectful of children’s privacy; new wheelchair and buggy access has been sensitively added to historic features; generous cloakrooms make the start and finish of the day run smoothly; and a fun ‘beach hut’ extension addresses access for less-abled children.

We helped the school to measure and understand its CO2 emissions using the low-carbon toolkit pioneered by The Atlas Project, developed by Cambridge University’s Programme for Sustainability Leadership. The toolkit enables pupils to be directly involved in making their school more environmentally sustainable by calculating carbon footprint data and working out a plan for reducing it.

"Cullinan Studio consulted all those who would be using the space – teachers, children and parents ... by the end of the project, they became part of the school community.”

━━ Kate Atkins, Head of School, Rosendale Primary School

Project Awards

• AJ Retrofit Awards - Schools (2013)