Wilkinson School is located in Bradley, Bilston in the heart of the Black Country. The site was part of an iron works during the industrial revolution and the school is assumed to be named after its industrial owner, John Wilkinson. The Birmingham canal, with a former historic wharf in the NE corner, forms the east boundary The client and local community expressed interest in the sites history and rich industrial heritage, of which on site are some large historic spoil heaps which the school wished to retain.

The new school buildings were located on the site of the existing buildings and the playing fields were retained as important green infrastructure for fitness, with the heritage spoil mounds adding a sculptural quality to the grounds. The school were enthusiastic with regard to ‘Learning through Play’ for all ages and for the external spaces to enrich teaching and learning across curriculum. Their ideas for outdoor performance, gardening, pond dipping and nature were all incorporated in the design. The school wanted the flexibility to have  spaces for separate ages and also the integration across the years for different events. The spaces were designed to have varied character, quiet areas, areas for small groups and active spaces.

Award: Passivhaus Building of the Year 2015

Client: Wolverhampton Council

Architect: Architype