Pozzoni’s sixth form centre opens

A £5m sixth form facility designed by Pozzoni Architects at Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College in Altrincham has opened for students.

Pozzoni said its building design aims to "reflect the school's objective to create an inspiring learning environment for Sixth Form students, and to provide a facility that complements the overall school campus facilities.

"A regular solid form houses the main learning spaces, in contrast to the organic glazed free form element that houses the social break out spaces and the more informal learning spaces. Externally, a copper 'skin' provides protection to the internal spaces and acts as a visual screen between the new building and the Astroturf sport pitches."

The BREEAM 'very good' building was 90% funded by the Learning & Skills Council. Chairman of governors, John Mulholland, said: "The end product is one we can all be both proud of and thankful for. My own view is that the building is so striking and aesthetically pleasing – as well as being very user-friendly – that it deserves to be nominated for an appropriate design award."

John Cornally, headteacher, said: "The concept and design has set the Sixth Form apart from other schools and colleges because of its modern design and stunning appearance. The building and its resources have proclaimed our school as a place with a confident future and a belief we can provide a world class Sixth Form education for our students."

Photography courtesy of Whitespace Consultants.