BENDIGO SPECIAL DEVELOPMENT SCHOOL

This project involved developing a masterplan and implementing the first stage of works for an existing, special developmental school comprising a high proportion of students with high needs. Situated on a tight site, bisected by an existing building, the first stage of this project involves partial demolition of this existing building and construction of a new, purpose building junior building located along the western edge of the site.

Comprising 6No. classrooms and 2No. specialist spaces the building will also deliver much needed meeting spaces for Allied Health professionals, staff office space and appropriate amenities meeting the varied needs of the student cohort along with teaching staff. The building will also provide a large, informal gathering and library/breakout areas.

A critical component of this project was to deliver new teaching and learning spaces which provide a safe and secure learning environment for both students and teachers which aims to minimise physical barriers traditionally associated with specialist schools.
Connection to landscape and provision of and access to appropriate outdoor play environments associated with classrooms has also formed a key component in the development of this project.

Photos: Leon Schoots Photography