Classroom of the Future

The Building

architects impression of the new Classroom as seen from the lake

The new classroom at Mossbrook is a science teaching space designed for learning about the natural environment through direct interaction with it. The school teaches the National Curriculum. For children with learning difficulties this is done in a demonstrative and experiential way, but the approach is relevant to all children and the new classroom is a resource for pupils from schools throughout the Sheffield area.

above left: looking from the ballpool room through to the main science classroom; above centre: The Classroom as seen from the playground; above right: interior view of classroom looking towards the lake.

Sarah Wigglesworth Architects are known for their innovative, exciting and sustainable approach to architecture. In this Classroom, children can learn about sustainability by discovering how they form part of a large, complex set of related interactions with the world around them. In this context technological gadgetry and tactile and sensory experience come together as ways of experiencing and interpreting the world. The Classroom itself is a learning environment in its own right, using light and materials as primary stimulation.

To respond to and stimulate the senses, the Classroom has incorporated a variety of different substances in its construction so the children can learn about them at close hand. The building is sited adjacent to a lake which the school has developed as a conservation area and nature reserve, allowing close interaction with the natural habitats of plants and animals around it. The Classroom forms a link between the school and this zone. The building is intended to attract animals and other wildlife to inhabit it.

above left: a birdbox bordering the lake; above centre: the lake in summer; above right: view over the meadow from the classroom

The Mossbrook Classroom of the Future, which is fully wheelchair accessible, features the following accommodation:
• Classroom 6 x 10m
• 1no. Disabled WC / changing room and 1no. WC
• 3no. Resource Rooms 2 x 2m, for storing things required in the Classroom
• Ball Pool exercise room 6 x 6m
• external deck overlooking the lake
• vertical green ‘living’ wall for cultivating plants and flowers.

above images: building work in progress on the site in 2003