Construction is underway on a new academy specialising in construction and the built environment.

Wren Academy is being developed on the site of an old school building in Finchley and will create a dynamic new learning environment for nearly 1,000 pupils aged between 11 and 16, and 150
post-16 year olds.

Phase one of the project, which involved the refurbishment of an existing building, opened to pupils in September, while phase two, which includes the construction of a new building will be completed by December next year.

The academy will specialise in construction and the built environment and the design supports the idea of the building as part of the curriculum with an emphasis on materials, transparency and a clearly expressed structure.

A new Learning Resources Centre (LRC) forms the focal heart space of, and entrance to, the building. A series of cascading steps will bring users from the main entrance down into the LRC creating an amphitheatre space.

The project also comprises sports hall, drama space, specialist construction classes, music spaces
and flexible teaching areas. Teaching and learning spaces have been designed around maximum flexibility and adaptability to suit a variety of teaching methods and group sizes. An emphasis on openness maximises views through and out of the school and a balcony at first floor level overlooks the cathedral-like heart space. Spaces are naturally top lit.

A simple, robust materials palette includes sinusoidal aluminium cladding and solid timber. As well as an aluminium folded roof, assisting with cross ventilation. Sustainability features include a biomass boiler, super insulating, air-tightness, lighting controls and good day-lighting. The scheme is aiming for a BREEAM rating of 'very good'.

PROJECT DETAILS

Client: Department for Children, Schools and Families
Architect: Penoyre & Prasad LLP Phase 2 Contractor: Galliford Try
Completion due: December 2009
Value: £24m