2C.5 PLAN TYPES

Many school plans are derived from the same generic plan type. Each has particular characteristics. For example, linked pavilions break down the scale in a large secondary school, but can be inflexible and difficult to extend because of the finite forms. Deep plans are efficient and environmentally good for heat retention but can cause ventilation problems (especially if courtyards are later filled in). A single building is easier to manage than several, and complex forms with many hidden recesses can increase security risk. This page and the next show three secondary school plans: street, campus and linked pavilions. The characteristics of each are listed alongside. Following that are three typical primary school plan types: pavilion, linear and deep linear.

SECONDARY SCHOOL: STREET PLAN

,The plan is based on a street grid with a main 'street' two or three storeys high forming the main circulation spine and focus for school life. The main street may be the most public route. Secondary circulation routes run at right angles to the street, giving access to different faculties. Characteristics include:
• The street provides a focus to the school and acts as an internal recreation space;
• Classrooms receive borrowed light from the street;
• The building is compact, reducing cost and heat loss;
• Courtyards are required to bring daylight to the deep plan;
• Areas away from the spine are fairly easy to adapt;
• Access to individual faculties can be restricted, if desired.