The future of learning is here

OLD and new . . . the modern building against a backdrop of mills

Computer shows what Oasis academy could look like.
PUPILS have been exploring their stunning new school in Hollins — two years before it opens.

That’s because they can take a virtual tour of how the Oasis Academy could look at a click of a mouse.

And the wow factor is planned from the start for the academy which will replace Kaskenmoor and South Chadderton schools.

It is hoped that the front of the building on the former Brook Mill site will boast large colour-changing panels — which could even be programed by pupils.

Inside is their large agora, an open space which is a feature of academies sponsored by Oasis. It aims to create a sense of community and will be used for the likes of socialising, performances, presentations and assemblies.

Indoor sports facilities include a hall, fitness suite and drama and dance studios. They are linked to an outdoor pavilion, all weather pitches, multi-use games area, running track and cricket wickets by a glass bridge.

There is also a trim trail, climbing wall and mountain bike path, while it is also hoped to keep the existing skate park which opened in 2007.

The bridge crosses an existing right running across the front the academy.

Principal John Alder explained: “Initially that was presented to us as a problem so what we have done is turn it into a feature.

“Rather than move it or shut it, we have widened the public right of way so we have got a broad approach to the academy from both directions. It symbolises uniting communities on both sides of the academy.

“The thing that really excites me most is the way it will be lit at night. At the moment it is a dark area with anti-social behaviour. It is the idea of a really exciting public space.”

The on-line walk-through has been created by Willmott Dixon which won the £71 million contract to build three academies which will replace five Oldham schools.

They will open in their existing buildings in September before moving into new schools in 2012 — with the Oasis academy the first to be unveiled in the June of that year.

Planning permission is still to be submitted.

Mr Alder added: “It’s pretty accurate, pretty close to what it will look like, but we can’t take that for granted. It’s a really exciting building. I think pupils and staff are going to be stunned.

“We want the children to feel they are so important that we have created this environment for them and their learning. It’s about this sense of wonder and awe and achievement and motivation.

“We have already done extensive consultation. We have shown it to students in both predecessor schools, staff and parents, and we have got a really positive response.”

Outdoor learning spaces could include a science terrace, gardens to grow food for the dining room and cafe, a recital area and a performance space.

Year 7 pupils will have their own part of the building, where they will spend around half of their time, to help the transition from primary to secondary.

Subjects in the academy are also organised into learning zones and Mr Alder added: “It is designed for 21st century learning so the spaces are very flexible.

“You can have a traditional classroom with 30 children if you want, but the partitions between classrooms can be moved.”