Education Campus – Northstowe, Cambridge
At Frank Shaw Associates, we believe in the power of education to transform communities. That’s why we’re particularly proud of our work on the Northstowe Education Campus, where we’ve been the Architect and Lead Consultant for this landmark project in Northstowe, Cambridge.
The Northstowe Education Campus is located in the heart of the town. It’s more than just a collection of buildings—it’s a central part of the town’s identity, bridging the Town Centre to the south with the Water Park and Cambridgeshire Guided Busway (CGB) to the north. Our design approach has been to create an open, welcoming environment that is seamlessly integrated into the wider community. The campus isn’t just a place for learning; it’s a communal hub where education, innovation, and community spirit converge.
We’ve paid close attention to ensuring that the campus is visually distinct yet harmoniously blends with its surroundings. The public frontage along the Primary Street and School Squares was designed with large windows, doors, and clearly defined entrances, giving the buildings a welcoming and accessible appearance. This creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages community engagement while making a strong architectural statement.
The Northstowe Education Campus houses a 12-form entry secondary school, a 110-place Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, and dual-use indoor sports facilities that serve both the school and the wider community. As the town grows, so does the campus. Our work didn’t stop with the initial phase. We’ve also designed and delivered further primary and secondary extensions as part of the ongoing Phase 2 and 3 developments.
In 2020, our efforts were recognised when the project won the Education Project of the Year at the Structural Timber Awards. This award is a testament to our commitment to excellence in educational design and our innovative use of materials.
The second phase of the Northstowe Education Campus includes a new 400-place Post-16 centre, an additional teaching wing for the secondary school, and a new 630-place primary school with early years provision. We’ve been working closely with key stakeholders—Meridian Trust, Cambridgeshire County Council, Homes England, and Greater Cambridge Shared Planning—to ensure that our designs align with their educational vision and the design code requirements.
This phase continues the vision of providing all-through schooling from ages 0-19 within Northstowe. The integration of secondary, primary, SEN, and sixth form facilities on one site not only supports the educational needs of the community but also creates efficiencies and economies of scale in design, construction, and operation.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Inclusivity
Our design for the Northstowe Education Campus has been guided by a strong commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. The SEN school on the campus is designed to accommodate students with a range of needs, from learning difficulties (PMLD) to autism (ASD). The school’s design ensures that all students have access to facilities and learning opportunities that meet their specific needs.
Sustainability has also been at the forefront of our design. The SEN school achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating and is Net Zero in Operation, thanks to several innovative features:
- Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) Construction: A modular construction method that reduces waste and lowers the embedded energy compared to traditional materials.
- Enhanced Natural Ventilation: The building’s design ensures a continuous airflow that meets overheating criteria, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.
- Efficient Window Design: Windows are designed for rapid ventilation and cooling, maximizing daylight and minimizing the need for artificial lighting.
- Renewables and Biodiversity: Photovoltaic cells on the roof provide renewable energy, while strategic green corridors enhance the campus’s biodiversity.
Looking to the Future
As Northstowe continues to develop, so too does its educational infrastructure. The forthcoming Northstowe Sixth Form College, set to open in September 2024, will expand opportunities for local students to continue their education close to home. This expansion includes a new primary school, a pre-school, and an extension of Northstowe Secondary College to accommodate up to 1,800 pupils.
At Frank Shaw Associates, we’re delighted to contribute to this vibrant community where education is at the heart of everything. Our work on the Northstowe Education Campus reflects our commitment to creating spaces that not only educate but also bring communities together, fostering a brighter future for all.
