Scott Brownrigg’s design for a new secondary school in a National Park and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has completed. The school opened its doors to students and staff on Monday 2 December 2019.

Built by BAM Construction, the 750-place secondary school draws upon the simple, bold forms of traditional stone and modern barns in the National Park. The spatial arrangement and orientation provides students, staff and visitors with a secure and engaging environment and spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons.

“The concept revolves around pupils and staff being at the heart of the school with large, open interconnecting spaces and double height spaces throughout. The protective stone wall on approach is reminiscent of the traditional fortified buildings from this area. The teaching spaces hang from the wall and resemble agricultural buildings that can be found throughout the National Parks.”

Jon James, Director

Jointly funded by the Welsh Government and Powys County Council, the brief and design development involved extensive engagement with Powys County Council, Brecon Beacons National Park Planning Authority and members of the public.

Designed using ‘Passivhaus’ principles, and covering 7,500 sq m, the state-of-the-art school includes specialist teaching areas, four-court sports hall, activity studio, dining areas and a full cooking kitchen. The BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rated school provides a range of flexible teaching spaces to suit different learning styles and pedagogical approaches.

“I'm delighted that pupils and staff have moved into Brecon High School's new building.

Providing high quality teaching and learning environments is part of our Vision 2025 and this fantastic facility will provide pupils and staff with a significantly improved learning environment.

I'm sure that pupils and staff will thrive in their new learning environment and I wish them all the best now that they have moved into their new building."

Lynette Lovell, Interim Head of Education