norwich open academy

On Thursday 9th September 2010 the new Open Academy in Norwich was opened for all. The twenty-million pound project was designed by Sheppard Robson Architects and built by Kier Education for the Norfolk County Council.



The 9,000 metre-squared development is centred around a 3-storey Open Forum which is surrounded by a number of learning zones that provide space for up to 950 students. The structure is made up of a five-ply cross laminated timber system which allowed for quick construction and the supply from sustainable forests gives the building a low carbon footprint. The outer perimeter of the curved plan contains the main teaching spaces in order to take advantage of natural light, ventilation and views. The inner space acts as the buildings circulation route.



The new academy replaces the original 1960's Heartsease High School to create a 'vibrant, attractive and stimulating learning environment' for all its pupils.

For more information please visit the Open Academy website where you can find a useful video of the build and a number of drawings to show the design concept.

ACF.