A Community-Centered Approach: Calderwood Primary School

Designed to serve the expanding Calderwood development, Calderwood Primary School had to create a space that was not only functional for today's learners but also future-ready for the generations to come. Working in close collaboration with East Calder Council, Morrison Construction, and the architectural team, Space Zero embraced the opportunity to bring this bold vision to life.

Calderwood needed to reflect the values of its community: connection, inclusivity, and growth. The design focused on fostering collaboration, not just among students and staff but within the wider community.

To ensure Calderwood Primary School served as a true community hub, the design extended beyond classrooms. From a multi-functional sports hall to open communal spaces, the school provides facilities that can be used for everything from evening events to local group activities. This dual-purpose approach makes Calderwood a space where education and community engagement go hand in hand.

Flexible learning spaces were at the heart of the project, allowing for modern teaching methods to flourish. Open-plan classrooms seamlessly connect to shared breakout areas, while quiet zones provide space for reflection and focus. These thoughtful layouts create an environment where students feel supported to explore their potential.

The incorporation of dedicated outdoor areas, such as play spaces and garden zones, further enhances the school's role as a central gathering point. These spaces aren't just for the students; they're for families and residents to enjoy as well.

Space Zero took a collaborative approach, working closely with all stakeholders to ensure the school reflected the needs of its users. Through extensive consultations, both face-to-face and remote, we developed a design that perfectly balances functionality with inspiration. By the end of the process, the rooms and specifications had been systematically signed off, ensuring no detail was overlooked.

Calderwood Primary School is more than a building; it's a space where students, teachers, and the community can come together to learn, connect, and grow. Its innovative design sets a new benchmark for how schools can serve both learners and their neighborhoods, proving that education and community are stronger together.