CLEADON NURSERY FEASIBILITY STUDY, CIF BID, DESIGN & BUILD

CLEADON C OF E ACADEMY

BACKGROUND

As a result of the Government’s announcement of its intention to double the entitlement of free nursery provision for working parents of three and four year olds from 15 to 30 hours per week, the Academy wished to offer sufficient high quality nursery provision, to prepare the children for entry into their two reception classes.

d3associates was initially appointed to gather the views from parents with children at the school, and the wider population in Cleadon Village by undertaking a series of surveys and holding a consultation event.

Following this extensive consultation, initial design work, planning application and costings were developed by d3a to support a successful EFA Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) application for a new 78 place nursery at the academy. The application was successful and d3associates were appointed to produce final designs and project manage the works.

OUTCOME

The nursery extension adjoins the existing reception classes and sits within a landscaped area. The feel and form is similar to the existing school and incorporates the same palette of materials. A link block, containing a new entrance lobby and group room as well as a flexible space for a variety of uses, separates the new nursery and includes roof lights for natural light and ventilation.

The nursery and resource area are open plan with large bi-folding doors opening on to a glazed canopy and secure play area. It provides a flexible and adaptable naturally lit space with plenty of storage and facilities, along with a creative outdoor play area with an external canopy, allowing the children to make the most of all-weather outdoor play and learning.