Building Education

‘Good infrastructure is truly at the base of a quality education. For a society searching for ways to address the educational needs of the future, the building itself is a good start’. – M. Berner, 1993. For the first time in decades substantial capital is being allocated to school buildings: the present government has acknowledged the importance of the quality of the environment in raising standards. The neglect of school buildings in the past corresponds with a lack of educational research into their use. This book examines the reasons behind this, drawing on international educational research, governmental literature and practical projects. It discusses: the relationship between school buildings, attainment and behaviour; user participation in the design process and ways in which the school building can support learning; the implications of opening up school buildings to the wider community; the role of the physical environment in the inclusion of children with special educational needs; the future of school buildings in relation to ICT, procurement and sustainability. A list of useful contacts and publications is provided. Building Education will interest educational researchers and professionals working in and with schools, particularly senior managers and governing bodies. It will also be of value to architects and LEA managers.