Rotherhithe Primary School

Rotherhithe Primary School is a new three form entry school replacing an existing two form 1970s building. Conceived as a ‘school within a garden’, the brief was to create a building with an improved civic presence within the community, along with varied and enriching outdoor spaces.  Delivery was phased to allow for continued use of the site throughout the build-out, completing in October 2022.

The landscape acts as an extension of Southwark Park, wrapping a planted habitat corridor around the school building to provide a positive green outlook and restorative learning environment for pupils.  The playground incorporates open spaces, climbing frames, trim trails and a MUGA for increasing physical activity, whilst public realm improvements to the front of the school enhances the building’s dialogue with the wider neighbourhood.

Ecological enhancements are seen not only as a duty to nature, but also as enrichment for the pupils, many of whom come from tower blocks in the surrounding densely populated urban area. A new forest school environment has woodland planting with hazel trees, wildflower meadow, den building kits, a timber trim trail and an outdoor teaching gazebo. Large, timber-framed grow beds are located on the south side of the school, providing space for herbs, vegetables and flowers planted by the pupils. A mud kitchen in the early years garden encourages interaction with soil, bugs and plants, and the central courtyard is well-stocked with sensory herb garden staples.