Monkseaton High School

Image: © Andrew Curtis Taken: 18 Jan 2018

London-based Devereux Architects, which has an office in Newcastle and Teesside, and international construction management firm Parsons Brinckerhoff, which has a site in Newcastle, won the National Constructing Excellence value award in 2011 for the building of Monkseaton High School. With its unusual triangular classrooms and open learning areas, the school, which has nearly 1,000 pupils aged between 13 and 19, and was opened in November 2009, has secured a clutch of accolades for the quality and innovation of its design. The building, in Seatonville Road, is one of the first to be fitted with pioneering light technology, which is designed to enhance learning. The technology, which is similar to that used by the Eden Project, boosts light levels during darker winter months to combat the sedative effects of lower levels of daylight. The futuristic oval shape of the building also means it uses less energy, while a special fresh air ventilation system keeps oxygen levels high – creating better conditions for concentration in the classroom. Other features include the use of individual toilet pods rather than communal toilet areas. Another feature of the school is its adaptability, with its communal areas such as libraries, independent learning areas, entrances and meeting areas all open-plan and classroom walls that can be moved to change and create new spaces. The school has a ventilation system that improves fresh air circulation and is designed to boost attention levels. The most eye-catching parts of the exterior of the school are the 31 wind catchers, which look like colourful building blocks. The school also boasts outdoor learning facilities and an all-weather sports pitch. http://www.thejournal.co.uk/business/business-news/devereux-architects-award-monkseaton-high-4440694 https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/local-news/innovative-building-school-future-1461383

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