GALLERY: New Kenilworth School 'a triumph of education and community' says architect
By James Smith
15th Aug 2023 | Local News
The architects behind the new Kenilworth School have hailed the Glasshouse Lane facility as a "triumph of education and community" as opening day edges nearer.
Keys to the £48 million school were handed over to Kenilworth Multi Academy Trust (KMAT) in July ahead of the first students heading to the new site in September.
And having worked on the designs and delivery of the school over the course of several years, Glancy Nicholls Architects (GNA) has said it is "honoured" to have played a role in bringing the project to life.
"This extraordinary structure stands as one of the most significant buildings in Kenilworth's history, presenting a civic frontage with an imposing colonnade," the Birmingham-based firm said.
"Its grandeur reflects the school's profound importance to the community, making a powerful statement about the value of education.
"Beyond its educational function, the school also offers an array of community facilities, including state-of-the-art sports facilities, a spacious hall, and inviting dining areas.
"These amenities serve as gathering spaces that bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie not only within the school but the local community."
The single-building school is designed with five wings with a "unique identity".
Between each wing is a courtyard which are intended to serve as "bespoke learning areas and pastoral retreats", providing students with an "environment that nurtures their mental well-being".
"With sustainability as a priority, our design team worked to create a school that the students could take pride in," GNA added.
"It is a testament to the building that students from Kenilworth eagerly volunteered to present the project to the planning committee.
"We are immensely pleased to have developed a legacy building that the students wholeheartedly support and advocate for. Their activism and commitment to sustainable principles is truly commendable."
Building work on the Glasshouse Lane school began in May 2021.
Constructed by Morgan Sindall, the £48 million project has seen a single three-storey school building built alongside 33 acres of sports pitches.
Works on the roads outside the school - which are being managed by Warwickshire County Council - are still underway.
Eventually the project will see safe walking and cycling routes to the new site built. Although not all of the works are expected to be completed in time for the first day back in September.
Alongside the move to Glasshouse Lane, the school is also preparing for new headteacher Darren Nicholas to take over, with Mr Abbott focusing on his role as CEO of KMAT.
And with GNA's role in the project coming to a close, the firm added: "This remarkable school building not only elevates the educational experience but also acts as a symbol of the town's aspirations and community spirit.
"As we celebrate its completion, we are filled with immense pride and look forward to witnessing the transformative impact it will have on generations of learners to come."
Find out more about Glancy Nicholls Architects here.
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