Hermitage Primary School

Hermitage Primary school is located along Vaughan Way in Wapping. The school currently has a mixedage form setup to accommodate the 1.5 FE cohort as it moves through. The purpose of the project is to provide a single storey new-build ASD unit as an Integrated Specialist Primary provision for up to 12 children with high functioning autism together with an additional bulge class.

The Unit for the Hermitage Primary School has undergone a rigorous design process to provide a bespoke solution, responding to the site and school requirements. The design considerations have maintained the client’s vision of a value for money providing a highly efficient layout whilst meeting LBTH sustainability and futureproofing aspirations.

The key design features include:

• Access to the multi use ASC unit is directly from the SEND area of the main building through a secure lobby and with an accessible WC linked to the unit.
• The circulation provides multiple access to the unit should the room need to be divided for various activities.
• The mono-pitched roof allows for northern light to filter through to the back of the classroom which is essential if the unit is to be divided via a folding wall. The sloped roof also creates high ceilings and with the addition of high level glazing, enables natural light to work well throughout the space giving a fresh feel to the environment.
• The lowest and highest parts of the proposed roof matches the existing roof levels therefore extends from the main school building seamlessly.
• The main entrance is accessed via the existing ramp with space for cycle storage.
• 2 accessible parking spaces provided close to the ramped access.
• A garden fronting the unit provides protected views from the outside and provides natural views helping promote learning and wellbeing.
• Design guidance from the National Autistic Society recommends limiting over stimulating views therefore, although desired in normal circumstances, windows to the south overlooking the EY play area are not proposed. Access to the playground however is available from both classrooms.

Client: London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Employer’s Agent: Ingleton Wood
Contract Value: £1,519,400.00
Contract End Date: July 2024
Form of Contract: JCT Standard Form with amendments