Kingswood has rolled out a brand-new Architecture module for its Year 12 students, thanks to an exciting partnership with Architect Katy Morrison. This gives students a practical, hands-on look at working within the Architecture profession.
Former Kingswood student and current parent, Katy, is an experienced Architect and the founder of Bath-based Morrison Studios, a RIBA Chartered Practice that designs beautiful and sustainable homes. The practice focuses on minimising environmental impact through carbon-conscious design and the use of natural, locally sourced materials. Together with Mr Oliver East, Kingswood’s Design, Technology & Engineering Enrichment Coordinator, they created this new module, which is now part of the Year 12 curriculum. It’s designed to prepare students for their upcoming Non-Examinable Assessment coursework later in the year.
Over the span of three weeks, students were given the task of redesigning part of the school campus – the activity hut, a site currently under a planning application. Students had to visit the site, carry out site analysis (sun path, orientation, topography, historical development). Materials had to be selected to minimise environmental impact, and their buildings had to be designed to reduce overheating and solar gain. Sketch concept ideas were then drawn up in detail using 3D computer modelling software which linked to the schools Virtual Reality (VR) headsets. This whole process allowed the students to gain a deeper understanding of how Architectural projects come together.
At the end of the project, students showcased their buildings to a panel of judges and their peers using a VR headset connected to their 3D computer model. This allowed the judges to immerse themselves into the 3D virtual buildings, demonstrating how the designs would work in the real world.
Katy concluded: “The results were impressive with unique designs ranging from car garages, to climbing centres and community cafes. Some were beautifully contextual with natural local stone, biodiverse roofs blending seamlessly into the landscape, whereas others were bold and striking with open-air pools, modernist glazing with parametric roofs. It was clear to see a natural flair for design from the students and witness the enthusiasm growing as the project developed.”
While the project doesn’t count towards students’ A-level grades, it offers valuable insight into the world of Architecture. “This module is all about broadening students’ horizons and introducing them to a career they might not have considered otherwise,” said Mr James Castrique, Kingswood’s Head of Design, Technology & Engineering. “Next year, I’m also planning to create a similar project for Year 8 to give even more students a chance to dive into architecture.”
Reflecting on the success of the module, Mr Castrique added, “This project has allowed our A-level Design, Technology & Engineering students to gain an invaluable insight into the career of Architecture. They have been able to undertake industry level processes over a short-term project and gain direct feedback from a professional Architect. As an ex-Kingswood student, Katy has provided an approachable professional platform for the students to ask their questions and explore a potential career.”
Pupil, Abigail E, said: “I really enjoyed the Architecture module because it let me be creative and learn how to design a building. Bringing my ideas to life, from sketches to detailed plans, felt amazing. I liked how every choice, like materials and layout, affected how the building looked and worked.
“It was also nice to create a space that not only looks good but also fits well with the area and helps the community. This experience taught me how important it is to think about sustainability and how buildings can work well with the environment.”
Categories: Kingswood School
