Shirebrook school extension plans include new ‘Awe and Wonder’ classroom

Plans have been submitted to Bolsover Council for an extension at Stubbin Wood School and Nursery, Common Lane, Shirebrook.

As part of the proposals, existing windows will be removed and a new ‘Awe and Wonder’ classroom would be built adjacent to the school entrance.

TEAM Education Trust, of which Stubbin Wood School is a member, also plans to build an additional staff room on the south side of the site.

The school supports children from nursery through to Year 14. All pupils on the main site have a statement of educational needs (SEN) and Educational Health Care Plans.

A design and access statement attached to the application ‘for the proposed Awe and Wonder classroom facility’ reads: “For some of our students we envisage this space raising their aspirations around STEM – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics – while for others it will allow them an opportunity to develop their pre-learning skills in the form of exploration, realisation, anticipation, persistence and initiation, allowing this to be an inclusive space for all.

“This space will be used to deliver STEM lessons, STEM careers events and sessions focused on the development of language and social skills through the exploration of unusual and awe-inspiring curiosities.”

Accessible

The proposed classroom would be accessed externally via one set of double doors and would feature an accessible ramp to enable step-free access.

The proposed staffroom will also be accessed externally, but will be connected by a new covered walkway to ensure a degree of protection is provided for the children in bad weather conditions.

The application continues: “The proposed development would help to further utilise an existing site and provide a valuable additional teaching and staff facility area.”

Rachel Watson, associate principal, said: “We have been keen to develop this project for several years and it's wonderful to see the plans taking their final shape.

“This will offer a rare and superb opportunity for young people to really embrace learning through a different approach to a traditional classroom setting.

“If all goes to plan, we hope to be welcoming our students into the classroom in the autumn term.”