Designing for Learning: School Campus Planning
The ‘Designing for Learning’ series of articles has been designed as a resource and guide for educators undertaking or wishing to undertake capital works projects on their campus. Our aim is to provide a base understanding of the intersection between pedagogy and architecture - bridging the gap between architects, educators, and community stakeholders. These are not scholarly articles but we do endeavour to reference relevant experts in this field. It is written by Audrey Whisker, an architect based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia with extensive experience working with the Department of Education, Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) and as registered architects on the Construction Supplier Register (CSR).
This article is most useful in the Masterplan or Asset Management Plan (AMP2) Stage.
Whisker Architect’s Approach to School Masterplans
Learn [in] Your Values
Every child deserves to feel safe, welcome, proud, and included.
To support that vision, Education Spaces must be:
Safe and inclusive for all – safe to use and creating a sense of safety. Visibility can be a great tool here;
Accessible through universal design principles such as a space being simple and intuitive to use as well as requiring low physical effort;
Diverse in terms of the learning settings and furniture provided but also the group sizes and needs supported;
Looked After both in the sense of easily maintained spaces and materials but also in the sense of a space that engenders a sense of community ownership; and
Engaging for the users – a space that is fun, interactive, and inspiring.
Masterplanning involves an extensive analysis of the existing and proposed conditions to fully understand the opportunities, constraints, and impacts we’re proposing to make on a campus. Combining climate and building science factors with the listed items above will guide us to create a functional ecosystem that supports the educational vision of the school now and through future expansions.
During the Masterplan process we will investigate opportunities with the School leadership, staff, students, local community, and Local Council, to refine the School’s local identity and vision for the future.
Giving a voice to students and teachers through stakeholder engagement workshops will result in a much more robust design outcome than analysing the physical spaces alone. We look forward to establishing the Project Control Group with the School.
A design approach of layering networks of paths of travel, zoning of use, zoning of access permissions, paths of known major services, and climate factors will guide us to create a functional network that supports the educational vision of the school now and through future expansions.
Masterplanning a spatial representation of the school structure into learning neighbourhoods with meaningful connections and inter-relationships to specialist resources will form a foundation to support the schools preferred pedagogical methods.
We welcome the opportunity to work closely with the Schools and their communities to achieve their vision, and to set the groundwork for the coming decades.
Further Research on School Masterplanning
Master planning a school campus is a complex task that requires careful consideration of a range of factors. It involves designing and organising the physical layout of a school's facilities, including classrooms, administrative offices, sports facilities, and other amenities. The masterplan must also consider the school's educational goals, the needs of the student population, and the constraints of the site.
The first step in master planning a school campus is to conduct a needs assessment. This involves gathering input from stakeholders such as administrators, teachers, students, and parents to determine the school's educational goals and the types of facilities and amenities that are needed to support those goals. This might include things like science labs, performing arts centers, or sports facilities.
Once the needs assessment has been completed, the next step is to consider the site constraints. This includes looking at the size and shape of the property, the availability of utilities and infrastructure, and any environmental or zoning considerations. The masterplan must take these constraints into account to ensure that the school's facilities can be built in a way that is efficient, effective, and safe.
The masterplan should also consider the needs of different user groups within the school. This includes students, teachers, staff, and visitors. For example, students will need access to classrooms, restrooms, and other facilities, while teachers will need access to offices, storage, and support areas. It is important to ensure that the masterplan provides clear and convenient circulation paths for all user groups.
The masterplan should also consider the impact of the school on the surrounding community. This might include issues like traffic flow, parking, and noise. It is important to design the school in a way that minimizes any negative impact on the community, while also ensuring that the school is integrated into the community in a positive way.
Overall, master planning a school campus requires a careful balance of educational goals, site constraints, and community considerations. By considering all these factors, it is possible to create a school campus that is functional, efficient, and supportive of the school's educational mission.
History of School Masterplans
Historical school campus masterplan designs have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting changing educational philosophies and societal values. These designs have shaped the way we think about and experience education, influencing everything from the layout of classrooms to the way students interact with one another.
One of the earliest examples of a school campus masterplan design can be found in ancient Greece. The Greeks believed that education should be a holistic and balanced experience, and their schools reflected this philosophy. The Academy in Athens, founded by Plato in the 4th century BCE, was a seminal example of this approach. The Academy was a complex of buildings arranged around a central courtyard, with classrooms and lecture halls located near the perimeter. This arrangement allowed students to move easily between different subjects and areas of study, fostering a sense of community and interconnectedness.
As education evolved over the centuries, so too did school campus masterplan designs. In the Middle Ages, monasteries and convents often served as centers of learning, and their designs reflected their role as both educational and spiritual centers. These buildings were typically arranged around a central cloister, with classrooms, dormitories, and other facilities located within the surrounding buildings.
The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in education, and this was reflected in the design of school campuses. Schools began to focus more on specialised subjects and practical skills, and classrooms were arranged in a more linear fashion to accommodate this shift. This approach was exemplified by the Collegiate Gothic design of many American universities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These schools were often built around a central quadrangle, with classrooms arranged in a series of interconnected buildings.
In the latter half of the 20th century, school campus masterplan designs began to reflect a greater focus on student-centered learning and collaboration. Classrooms were arranged in a more flexible and open manner, and schools began to incorporate outdoor spaces and green areas into their designs. This approach was exemplified by the concept of the "learning village," which sought to create a campus environment that felt more like a community than a traditional school.
Today, school campus masterplan designs continue to evolve, reflecting changing educational philosophies and the increasing use of technology in the classroom. Whether designed to foster collaboration, support specialised subjects, or create a sense of community, these designs have shaped the way we think about and experience education.
Defining the Educational Vision for the School
An educational vision for a school is a clear, concise statement that outlines the goals and values of the school community. It serves as a guiding light, helping educators and students navigate the complexities of modern education and work towards a shared purpose.
At its core, an educational vision should be focused on student learning and growth. It should outline the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in college, career, and life. This includes a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to communicate effectively.
An educational vision should also prioritise equity and inclusion, ensuring that all students could succeed regardless of their background or circumstances. This may include a focus on providing resources and support for students who are English language learners or have special needs.
In addition to these key elements, an educational vision should also incorporate the values and goals of the school community. This may include a focus on sustainability, global citizenship, or a particular area of academic excellence.
Developing an educational vision for a school requires input from all members of the community, including students, teachers, parents, and administrators. It should be a collaborative process that involves careful consideration of the needs and goals of all stakeholders.
Once developed, an educational vision should be communicated clearly and consistently to all members of the school community. It should be visible in all aspects of school life, including the curriculum, instructional practices, and decision-making processes.
An educational vision is a powerful tool that helps schools focus on their mission and goals and guides their efforts to provide a high-quality education for all students. It is an essential element of a successful school and should be developed and nurtured with care and collaboration.
Designing for Community Use
Designing for community use on a school campus can be a complex task. There are a multitude of stakeholders to consider, including students, teachers, staff, and members of the surrounding community. Additionally, the needs and preferences of these groups can vary significantly, making it difficult to create spaces that are suitable for all.
However, by keeping a few key principles in mind, it is possible to design spaces that are welcoming, functional, and inclusive for all members of the community. Here are some tips for designing for community use on a school campus:
Prioritise accessibility: It is important to design spaces that are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. This includes ensuring that there are ramps, elevators, and other necessary accommodations to make the space easily accessible. Additionally, it is important to consider the layout of the space and ensure that there is enough room for people to move around comfortably.
Think about the needs of diverse groups: Diverse groups may have unique needs when it comes to using a space. For example, students may need areas for group work and quiet study, while teachers may require a space for meetings and presentations. By considering the needs of all groups, it is possible to create spaces that are suitable for a range of activities.
Incorporate technology: Technology can play a significant role in making a space more functional and efficient. Consider incorporating technologies such as WiFi, interactive whiteboards, and multimedia equipment to enhance the experience of users.
Foster a sense of community: One of the key goals of designing for community use on a school campus is to create a sense of belonging and community. This can be achieved using shared spaces, such as common areas or courtyard, and by incorporating elements that encourage social interaction and collaboration.
Designing for community use on a school campus requires careful consideration of the needs and preferences of diverse groups. By prioritising accessibility, considering the needs of diverse groups, incorporating technology, and fostering a sense of community, it is possible to create spaces that are welcoming, functional, and inclusive for all members of the community.
Siting Buildings in a School Masterplan
Siting buildings in a school masterplan is a crucial aspect of school planning and design. It involves carefully considering the location, orientation, and layout of buildings on a school campus to create a functional and efficient space for learning, teaching, and community engagement.
Here are some key considerations when siting buildings in a school masterplan:
Accessibility: The location of buildings should be easily accessible to students, teachers, and staff, as well as visitors and emergency services. This means choosing locations that are close to parking, public transportation, and pedestrian paths.
Legibility: This is a design term used to describe how easily new users can understand a space. It is a bit like how, as a driver, you can be on a road and know how to behave in a laneway (likely a 40km/h zone) versus a 4-lane highway (probably at least 80km/h zone). Cues such as the scale of the buildings, the scale of the spaces between the buildings, the materials used, and the furniture and object placement can all impact on how we read a space.
Orientation: Building orientation can have a significant impact on energy efficiency and the overall comfort of a building. For example, orienting buildings to the south can maximise natural light and heat gain in the winter, while east and west-facing facades should be minimized to reduce solar gain in the summer.
Zoning: Zoning regulations can also impact the location and layout of buildings in a school masterplan. It’s important to work with local authorities to ensure that your plans comply with any zoning requirements however internal zoning can be just as important. Zoning for the age of the children using the space can result in easier management during recess and lunch play times. e.g. If there is a Junior, Middle, and Senior building on site then there should be a conversation around if a Junior, Middle, and Senior play area is also desireable.
Use: The surrounding landscape can also play a role in siting buildings. For example, school ovals and hardcourts should face north-south to reduce sun in the faces of players during a game. You may want to consider incorporating trees, active play spaces, and passive play spaces as well as shade structures to create a more welcoming environment.
Future growth: It’s also important to consider the potential for future expansion and growth when siting buildings. This may involve leaving space for additional buildings or planning for buildings that can easily be modified or expanded in the future. Relocatable classrooms are a strategy typically relied upon by the Victorian School Building Authority however other institutions may prefer to use permanent buildings.
Safety and security: The safety and security of students, teachers, and staff should be a top priority when siting buildings. This may involve considering factors such as visibility, access control, and emergency egress routes.
Overall, siting buildings in a school masterplan requires careful consideration of a range of factors, from accessibility and orientation to zoning and safety. By taking the time to thoughtfully plan the location and layout of buildings, you can create a functional and efficient school campus that supports the learning and well-being of your students and community.
Safety in Design on a School Campus
Safety is an integral aspect of any school campus design. It is crucial to ensure that students, staff, and visitors feel safe and secure while on school grounds. This involves designing the campus to minimise the risk of accidents and injuries, as well as addressing potential security concerns.
One key element of safe school design is the layout of the campus. This includes the placement of buildings, walkways, and outdoor spaces, as well as the separation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. It is important to ensure that there are clear and accessible paths for people to move around the campus, and that these paths are well-lit and free of hazards.
Another important aspect of school campus safety is the design of the buildings themselves. This includes the use of materials that are safe and durable, as well as the incorporation of features such as fire sprinklers and alarms, emergency exits, and accessible routes for people with disabilities. Additionally, it is essential to have well-maintained facilities, including regular checks and maintenance of electrical and plumbing systems, as well as the upkeep of outdoor areas to prevent slip and fall accidents.
Security is another important consideration in school campus design. This includes the installation of security cameras, gates, and other measures to protect against intruders and potential threats. It is also important to have clear policies and procedures in place for responding to emergencies, as well as training for staff and students on how to handle these situations.
Finally, it is important to consider the overall aesthetic of the school campus and how it can contribute to a sense of safety and well-being. This includes the use of natural light and open spaces, as well as the inclusion of outdoor areas for recreation and relaxation.
Safety in school campus design involves a range of considerations, including the layout of the campus, the design of buildings and facilities, security measures, and the overall aesthetic of the space. By prioritising these elements, schools can create a safe and welcoming environment for all students, staff, and visitors.
The Importance of Play and Landscape Design
Play is an essential part of a child's development, and it is important for schools to have a well-designed landscape that allows for a variety of play opportunities. A school campus that is thoughtfully designed with play in mind can have several benefits for students, including:
Physical health: Outdoor play allows children to engage in physical activity, which is essential for their overall health and well-being. Research has shown that children who engage in regular physical activity have stronger muscles, bones, and cardiovascular systems, and are less likely to develop obesity and other health problems.
Mental health: Play can also have a positive impact on a child's mental health. It can help reduce stress and anxiety and provide a sense of relaxation and enjoyment. This can be especially important for children who may be dealing with the stresses of school and other life challenges.
Social skills: Play can also help children develop social skills and build relationships with their peers. When children play together, they learn to communicate, collaborate, and negotiate with one another, which are all important skills for success in school and in life.
Creativity and problem-solving: Play can also be a terrific way for children to exercise their creativity and problem-solving skills. When children are given the opportunity to explore and experiment in a safe and supportive environment, they are more likely to think freely and come up with innovative ideas.
So, what makes a good landscape design for a school campus? Here are a few key considerations:
Variety: A good landscape design should provide a range of play opportunities, including open areas for running and playing games, structures for climbing and exploring, and natural features like trees and streams. This can help ensure that children have plenty of options for play and can engage in activities that suit their interests and abilities.
Safety: Safety is always a top concern when it comes to children's play areas. A good landscape design should incorporate features like soft surfaces and barriers to prevent accidents, as well as clear sightlines so that adults can easily supervise play.
Accessibility: A good landscape design should also be accessible to children of all ages and abilities. This may include features like ramps and wide pathways for children with mobility challenges, and sensory elements like water features and musical instruments for children with sensory processing disorders.
Play is an essential part of a child's development, and a well-designed landscape can provide a range of benefits for students. By providing a variety of play opportunities, ensuring safety, and promoting accessibility, schools can create a campus that is both fun and functional for children of all ages.
Dunbar’s Number in School Design
Dunbar's number is a cognitive limit to the number of stable relationships an individual can maintain at any given time. It is a concept proposed by evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar, who based it on the average size of a social group in primates. The number is roughly 150 but can vary depending on the individual and their social environment.
In school design, understanding Dunbar's number can be useful in creating a positive and productive learning environment. For example, in a classroom setting, a teacher may want to consider the size of their class and how it may affect the students' ability to form meaningful relationships with their peers. A class that is too large may make it more difficult for students to connect with one another, leading to a less cohesive and potentially less engaging learning experience.
Image by JelenaMrkovic
On the other hand, a class that is too small may also pose challenges, as students may not have enough opportunities to interact with a diverse group of peers and may miss out on valuable social and emotional development. Therefore, finding the right balance in class size is crucial in promoting positive social connections and a sense of community within the school.
In addition to class size, school design can also consider the number of teachers and staff a student has contact with. A student who has a limited number of adults they can turn to for support may feel isolated and may struggle to form strong relationships with their peers. On the other hand, having too many teachers and staff may lead to confusion and a lack of individual attention.
Overall, understanding and considering Dunbar's number in school design can help create a learning environment that promotes strong social connections and a sense of community among students and teachers. This can lead to a more positive and engaging educational experience for all.
Storms, prevailing winds, the direction of the sun, proximity of neighbours, existing trees, and connections to walking and cycling paths can all impact the design of a school masterplan.
Master Planning for the Environment
As the world becomes more aware of the need for environmental sustainability, it is important for educational institutions to take the lead in implementing environmentally sustainable design in their campus masterplans. Not only does this benefit the environment, but it also helps to educate students about the importance of sustainability and encourage them to incorporate it into their own lives.
One way to incorporate sustainability into a school campus masterplan is through the use of green infrastructure. This includes the use of permeable pavement, rain gardens, and green roofs, which help to manage stormwater runoff and reduce the impact on local waterways. In addition, green spaces can be incorporated into the campus to provide areas for recreation, relaxation, and education about the environment.
Energy efficiency is another important aspect of sustainable design in school campus masterplans. This can be achieved using energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, as well as the incorporation of renewable energy sources such as solar panels. These efforts not only reduce the carbon footprint of the school, but also save money on energy costs.
Another key aspect of sustainable design in school campus masterplans is the use of materials that are environmentally friendly and sustainable. This includes the use of recycled materials, locally sourced materials, and materials that have a minimal impact on the environment during their production and transportation.
In addition to incorporating sustainable design elements into the physical layout of the campus, it is also important to consider the impact of transportation on the environment. This can be achieved through the use of bike lanes and racks, carpool incentives, and the incorporation of public transportation options.
By incorporating these and other sustainable design elements into school campus masterplans, educational institutions can take a leadership role in promoting environmental sustainability and educating the next generation about the importance of protecting the planet.
TLDR
Masterplanning a school campus is a complex task that requires careful consideration of a range of factors, including educational goals, site constraints, and community considerations. School campus masterplan designs have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting changing educational philosophies and societal values. When designing for community use on a school campus, it is important to prioritise accessibility, consider the needs of different groups, incorporate technology, and foster a sense of community.
Siting buildings in a school masterplan requires careful consideration of factors such as accessibility, orientation, zoning, and future growth. Play is an essential part of a child's development, and a well-designed landscape can provide a range of benefits. Safety in school campus design involves a range of considerations, including the layout of the campus, the design of buildings and facilities, security measures, and the overall aesthetic of the space.
Understanding and considering Dunbar's number in school design can help create a learning environment that promotes strong social connections and a sense of community. Incorporating sustainability into a school campus masterplan can be achieved through the use of green infrastructure, energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and transportation options.
