Concepts for the college's new Design & Innovation Centre are designed to inspire, excite and enthuse staff and students to embrace new and varied learning experiences.
Designed to cater to students with special needs, the new learning centre seeks to create an environment without distinction or discrimination and to shape the experiences and attitudes of not only those in it but also those of the local community.
Guided design principles that acknowledge the innate human connection to the natural world and the need for spaces that offer warmth and comfort, the centre’s design features direct and indirect connections with nature throughout to create an engaging and stimulating space that supports sensory and emotional regulation.
Inspired by the surrounding environment and the nearby Grampians, the unique combination of tactile textures and materials both inside and outside creates a safe, calming, and welcoming environment that seeks to shape the experiences and attitudes of not just students but also the local community. The natural materials and colour palette support sensory and emotional regulation, while its large expanses of glass provide a seamless connection to the surrounding environment.
Once mature, its landscaped gardens will provide a safe and calming environment for play, outdoor learning experiences, sporting activities, socialising and connecting. The opportunity to engage in these types of activities is particularly important for students with special needs, as it supports them in developing their independence, life, and social skills, and prepares them for the next phase of life.
Inside, the centre’s flexible and adaptable contemporary learning environments provide the space and amenities needed to support students’ needs and help them to develop their independence, life and social skills, so that they are equipped to integrate with and enjoy being part of their community. These include strategically positioned support spaces and wet and servery areas that provide students with the opportunity to do things like prepare tea and coffee and learn important life skills. While centrally located staff work areas are strategically positioned to maximise visibility and allow for appropriate supervision of students.
