Located in the heart of Darlington, St Aidan’s Academy provides a modern learning environment for up to 700 pupils. The concept of ‘community’ was developed as a key educational philosophy for this project.  Its unique design of a central flexible ‘community’ heart space with four inter-connecting hub spaces allows for the ‘schools within schools’ learning model to be developed, providing clustered learning bases, shared learning spaces, team teaching, flexible vocational spaces, outdoor classrooms and open plan learning, all designed in synergy with the ICT and furniture provision.

High levels of permeability, natural surveillance and flexibility have been achieved to support diverse learning styles and the ethos of personalised learning, ensuring that an environment where all learners can flourish and their aspirations be achieved.