Our brief was to create a classroom extension which allowed the internal reorganisation of the special educational needs (SEN) provision at St Cuthbert’s and to enclose an existing play space as an external, unheated, covered classroom space which could be securely locked down at night.

We developed a softwood structure made of standard size vertical and horizontal members, all of which are then glued and bonded with steel flitch connections creating a series of roof-lights and back-lit panels internally and externally.

The simple external enclosed space is then locked down with off the shelf galvanised roller shutters, so the space can be opened up in day time as an “enclosed” space allowing teaching staff to encourage SEN pupils to use both spaces without concern over well-being and stopping any “wandering” without supervision.

The X form roof structure is reminiscent of the boughs of a tree located directly outside the classroom.