The experiences children gather in the early years are fundamental to their future development. The environments in which these early stages unfold, in nurseries and primary schools, have an undeniable importance in this learning process (1). Nurseries, the most modest of education buildings, typically including one or two playrooms and support accommodation, do require particular consideration to ensure the needs of teaching staff and pupils are met. The practice is presently engaged by the Belfast Schools Partnership to develop a new model for nurseries to maximise off–site and ‘dry’ construction methodology and reduce construction times. The goal is for new school completion during summer holidays. At primary level, the practice is working with government clients and contracting partners on schools utilising modular construction, and a low energy design strategy in a drive toward ‘zero carbon’ buildings.
(1) Preschool and Kindergarten Architecture, Arian Mostaeli 2006