Young architects redesign school

Staff from the university school of architecture worked with pupils from Parkwood High School at Shirecliffe.

Two classes of 11 and 12-year-olds have been learning about the architecture around them, and have been encouraged to share their views on the spaces and places in which they live, play and learn.

First the pupils took part in workshops, which led to them wanting to make a few changes to the school and its grounds.

One class decided to build an outdoor shelter, using a timber frame, and another drew up plans for a peace garden.

Both these ideas will be put into practice next term.

The first stage of the experiment, called the Change Project, ended with an exhibition attended by the whole school, with photos and models of the youngsters' work.

The idea is the partnership between the university and school will be a long term affair, encouraging pupils to look critically at their surroundings and think about how they might be improved.

Head Chris Mallaband said the project had been a particularly creative one for everyone.

"It encourages real creativity and empowerment because the young people have been engaged in the same thought processes that architects and planners undertake.

"They thoroughly enjoyed the project," he added.