Completed in 2007, St Joseph’s unique natural environment creates a green oasis within the built environment of Ipswich. Our aspirations were to expressly link the new school with both the natural environment and the existing context of the campus, creating a sense of ‘place’ and ‘belonging’.
The school has been designed to provide 4 class bases incorporating 2 classrooms and shared activity spaces and toilet accommodation. The 4 class bases were coloured to create a sense of identity between year groups. The sinuous spine of the building created a link between the class bases and meandered through the shared areas allowing the whole school to experience the work of their fellow students.
A surprising result of the design reported by the Headmaster has been the increased time that parents spend in the environs of the school. Instead of waiting outside for pupils to enter or exit the building they wander in and socialise within the new Hub (described as the heart of the school). This increased interaction with the school has truly fostered a sense of belonging far beyond the periphery of the College.