Design and build

Designing the school build or refit with adaptability in mind is a key consideration for Schools as Community Platforms. Spaces should be versatile, capable of accommodating a variety of purposes to meet the diverse needs of the planned usage. Engaging end-user groups in the design process ensures that the spaces are not only adaptable but also have the minimum configuration or fit out that additional services would need. 

Establishing clear lines of responsibility for both the construction and fit-out phases and fostering effective communication channels between all parties involved is fundamental this type of build. 

A comprehensive approach to safety standards and compliance is essential in the construction or retrofitting is necessary depending on the varied purposes the space will serve. Early design should consider diverse safety standards and compliance requirements across different sectors. Planning for an effective communication system for emergency management and for potential shared IT infrastructure is also efficient. 

Understand the consequences of the compromises on implementation. Ensure those with decision/ authorising power understand the intention and authorisation to build different to standard templates. Be prepared to hold firm on design elements that are essential to the ability to implement and open to innovative options that hadn’t been thought of. Ensure key implementation stakeholders (those who will use the space) are part of design and monitoring process. Budget for fit out and build.

Our Experience/Learnings

A build for a Schools as Community Platforms is different to a standard build for a school. Those who are commissioning the build need to invest time in clearly articulating the planned usage and space and design needs to the architects, project managers and builders at the senior level and where necessary authorise the nonstandard aspects. 

Where there was a project control group to oversee the build stage that included school leadership, Department of Education, the Schools building authority, Our Place and the Early Years Service provider, this ensured that the design and build were fit for purpose and avoided costly variations to the build contract. 

Key aspects of design and build that were outside of usual school builds included:

• Adequate space for Pram parking.
• Child safe exit points and fittings for shared spaces.
• Access to bathrooms and baby change rooms.
• Storage in multipurpose spaces.
• Physical build requirements for compliance with Early learning services regulations.
• Access to self service tea/ coffee making in the shared space.
• Adequate staff spaces for breaks and shared planning (for on site staff).
• Alternate exits for service providers and families in emergencies. 
• Integrated communication and IT access systems to accommodate efficient emergency management and shared bookings systems. 
• Provision of locker space for workforce and visiting services. 
• Fit out costs for shared space.

There were some building limitations that needed to be overcome through development of agreed procedures at early implementation. The ability to quickly communicate with collocated services in an emergency / lock down situation is easier where communications IT of the different organisations can be linked or integrated as part of the fit out. 

Where fit out or refurbishment costs are being shared between organisations having agreement on the integrated aspects of the design is important to provide the single-entry experience for families.