Background

Opened in September 2012, the brand new £6.5m Endike Primary school provides a modern learning environment for 420 pupils aged three to 11 and 26 nursery school places.

As part of the Government’s ‘Building Schools for the Future’ programme the project involved the design and detailing of a three-storey primary school building, which would eventually replace the existing 80 year old school, providing considerable improvements to educational facilities in the local area.

Challenge

When remodelling the school on the inside, it was also important to recognise the opportunities the outside space could bring, as research shows that well-planned grounds have a profound influence on the ethos of a school and that a clear link exists between the quality of a school’s design and the quality of education delivered.

In terms of design, the challenge was to update the old school site, creating a stimulating outdoor environment with opportunities for learning, fun, exercise and achievement to the benefit of children at the school.

It was key for Marshalls to achieve product options which satisfied the designer’s aspirations whilst also considering budgets and timescales to suit the client.

The need to manage site logistics was particularly important in the refurbishment of Endike Primary school as the existing school was still operating during the construction process.

The school was built with longevity in mind therefore it was important for all materials used in the project to reflect this.

Solution

Simple implementation of high-quality hard landscaping materials in school environments can help enhance learning and benefit the health and well-being of children by providing useable and attractive spaces.

Marshalls specialises in supplying schools, colleges and universities with quality hard landscaping solutions, from water management products, to the very latest street furniture.

The client was looking for a product which would create a safe outside space for pupils that could be used to produce an inspiring, modern outdoor learning environment. Marshalls Conservation smooth ground flag paving is suitable for pedestrian areas and supports projects with a contemporary edge, combining the appearance and richness of natural granite aggregates.

Conservation paving has a wide range of complementary products which make it easier for the architect to coordinate designs to achieve the best possible results. One such product at Endike Primary School is Conservation Silver Grey Textured Kerb which offers a wider profile than the British Standard Kerb.

Benefit

Endike Primary school represents the very modern face of education in the city of Hull. Staff, pupils and parents are said to be delighted with the school which has been totally transformed from its former existence into a dynamic learning environment.

David Martin, the Director of Building Schools For The Future (BSF) in Hull, said: “Endike is the clearest example of innovation that is happening in BSF. We are trying to make sure that each school is individual. We have tried to create something that is exciting, that works as a school on the inside and has a positive local impact from the outside. Something that is useful, functional and beautiful."