Vastint UK celebrates a major milestone, with the completion of Sugar House Island’s innovative new primary school, School 360. Operated by the Big Education Trust, the school will join sister school, the Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ School 21, in Stratford. The school opens its doors to 26 reception children, aged four and five from the surrounding area.
Vastint UK has worked closely with architects Penoyre & Prasad and contractor Mid Group to deliver a building that supports the school’s unique curriculum which is based on three pillars: developing the head to provide rich knowledge and deep understanding; the heart to focus on well-being and relationships as well as the hands to encourage every child to learn about creativity, problem-solving and the arts.
Facilities
Pupils will benefit from a green outdoor classroom, for reading and group activities, as well as a Forest School, Musical Walk and a Bike Parking Zone, containing a covered space for 58 bicycles and additional scooter spaces.
The roof top playground and multi-use games area (MUGA) offer a range of play and learning experiences with an outdoor classroom and theatre, open play space and Growing Gardens and Green Teaching Space.
Inside, the school offers students a variety of learning experiences and spaces with a ‘makerspace’ dedicated to arts and crafts, ‘Oracy stairs’ which offer informal seating and opportunities for students to share their voice and a flexible studio space designed for drama and oracy sessions.
The school also boasts a SEN-enhanced space to cater to students with specialist educational needs.
The school will be led by co-headteachers Andrea Silvain, who joins from School 21, and Sarah Seleznyov, formerly Director of London South Teaching School.
Sarah Seleznyov, said: “We are delighted to launch School 360 this September. We look forward to welcoming children on their education journey – Reception children in 2020-21, and opening to younger children in subsequent years”.
Andrea Silvain, said. “Our new primary school is led by our values of courage, curiosity, kindness, responsibility, and joy, and will draw on the strength and expertise of the amazing creative community within Sugar House Island. By working together collaboratively we can think differently and learn together.”
School 360 is the first school ever constructed by Vastint. Andrew Cobden, Managing Director for Vastint UK, said: “We are delighted that School 360 has opened at Sugar House Island and are thrilled to welcome the first generation of students and staff. The new school is an asset to local families and an integral part of the Sugar House Island community. As a people-centred neighbourhood, School 360’s values align with our mission to creative a thriving and sustainable community with creativity and well-being at its heart.”