The baseline designs are sketch designs (equivalent to RIBA stage C) developed by the Education Funding Agency (EFA). They show that the requirements of the Priority School Building Programme PFI output specification (OS) can be met within the set area and cost allowances.
The designs have been informed by studies of existing school buildings, including post-occupancy evaluation. We expect them to evolve as the programme progresses.
The baseline designs can be adapted to suit a wide range of school sizes and types. The examples include:
- Two secondary mainstream school for 1200 pupils aged 11 to 16.
- A primary mainstream school for 420 pupils, aged 4 to 11, with a nursery of 26 FTE places (with the option to be larger).
Supplementary facilities such as children’s centres or special needs units are not included.
The designs are based on typical curriculums, but have the flexibility to accommodate a range of teaching approaches.
The designs are not site-specific but will suit a range of sites and orientations. One of the secondary designs is devised as a ‘kit of parts’ making it particularly suitable for awkwardly shaped sites or those where some buildings are being retained.
External areas are not in the scope of the project, although consideration is given to access to the outside.
