Sunfield’s new school buildings were officially opened on Tuesday 29 September 2009, by Lord Cobham.
“The opening of the new school marks the culmination of a long period of research and consultation to make sure that the building best meets the needs of our pupils,” said headteacher, Mrs Lesley Gaukroger.
“My staff were asked for their views and, as far as possible, these were incorporated into the new building. Hence, some classrooms have a separate “quiet” room, whilst others have a shower or an observation room. Our architects, Glazzards, have worked hand-in-hand with our teaching staff to provide the best possible environment for our students, in which to maximise their potential.
“Our priority was to provide a low arousal environment for Sunfield’s children, in which they can learn without distraction – this is crucial for children with autism. We have lined the walls of the classrooms with plywood cladding, which gives each room a calm, natural and soothing atmosphere. This cladding is varnished rather than painted, so that it is not bright and reflective, as this can affect some of our children’s field of vision and disturb their concentration.
“To this end also, we have avoided bright colour schemes and we have “Flotex” flooring in many of the classrooms, which helps with noise absorption. Our new classrooms may even seem a little dull to the average person, but they provide a wonderful environment in which our children and young people can engage in their learning.
Sunfield patron, Lord Cobham at the opening ceremony with headteacher, Lesley Gauroger
“Many of these new elements have been trialled in some of our previous classrooms and have been found to help create this low arousal environment. We have incorporated what we know through experience to work for our children – matt grey furniture, for example, and non-fluorescent lighting.
“As well as classrooms the new school incorporates some wonderful new educational features. There is a fantastic new kitchen area, where our children will learn important life skills. It has specialist equipment which is designed for children with learning difficulties, who will be able to learn to prepare simple food, use a washing machine and even, in some cases, iron. Our new art suite and colour therapy room will give another dimension to our children’s learning.
“The contemporary design of the exterior of the new school building has been achieved without creating a building which is too outlandish or out of keeping with its environment. The external wood cladding, together with the curvilinear walls, gives the building a sympathetic and organic feel, which is mirrored by the curved pathway leading into it and the internal curved walls. These elements give a sense of flow through the building.
“We are delighted with our new school, inside and out, and we know that this environment will enhance our ability to help our students to reach their full potential. It has been very carefully designed with their very specific needs in mind, and with the experience and expertise of our staff to inform it, and we are very much looking forward to teaching Sunfield’s children here for many years to come.”
Take a virtual tour of the new school facilities by clicking the play button below.
