Scott Brownrigg’s design for Great Western Academy in Swindon has won Best Education Building at this year’s National Local Authority Building Control (LABC) Building Excellence Awards.

A panel of industry experts judged a list of the highest quality projects from across England and Wales to reward the best in technical innovation, sustainability, safety and design.

The innovative design deconstructs the standard Superblock design principles. Eliminating long corridors to create a genuine community heart to the school, whilst maintaining principles that drive value into the school design. Constructed by BAM Construction, the school opened in September 2018 to Year 7 students, it will open its Sixth Form in September 2019.

The environmental performance of the school exceeds the requirements of building regulations and local planning policy. The fabric first approach maximises energy efficiency, high levels of insulation and low air permeability together with optimum area to volume ratio. High levels of day lighting reduces energy consumption and improves the concentration of the learners.

The panel of expert judges found that “Great Western Academy stood out in this category for a number of reasons. In an era of school building where budgets and form are highly constrained, this building demonstrates there is still room for design excellence and elegance. We were also very impressed with the focus on quality from the construction team and the use of technology to ensure compliance. A great project all round.”

“We are delighted that Great Western Academy school has been recognised at the LABC awards. Its success reflects the strong collaboration with the client to develop a scheme that we are all proud of.”

Jon James, Director

The Grand Final of the LABC Building Excellence Awards took place on Friday 8 November 2019. Great Western Academy previously won the LABC West of England Regional Awards in July 2019.