The Passivhaus energy standard allows for a reduction in the amount of energy needed for heating by up to 90%, as well as lowering the total amount of energy used by around 70%. The new school is designed to achieve beyond the Scottish Futures Trust energy target of 67kWh/m2/year. The brief was to take on Edinburgh’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2030, while at the same time helping socio-economic sustainability in the area.

The school will feature a series of learning zones for pupils with breakout areas which include science, technology, engineering and maths over three levels; languages and humanities with dual teaching classrooms; a learning plaza and a debating chamber; expressive arts with music rooms, a recording, art, dance and drama studios; a gym and games hall, fitness suite and swimming pool; and an integrated support and wellbeing hub.

There is also a ‘strong’ emphasis on outdoor learning with the creation of a special terrace on the second floor providing all of the learning zones with immediate access to external teaching spaces.

Health and wellbeing also feature ‘prominently’ in the designs with the creation of a dedicated wellbeing hub and separate wellness centre to support pupils.

“What has been so refreshing on this scheme is the close, open collaboration between the client and our design team. It has driven forward the great deal of ambition around the scheme into an inspiring project,” said Architype Lead Architect Ann-Marie Fallon.

Councillor Neil Gardiner, planning convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said, “The new Currie Community High School will provide the community with a state-of-the-art sustainable high school, sports and community facilities which will meet both future educational and environmental needs.

“It’s great to see such a strong emphasis on outdoor learning with the creation of a special terrace and how the outdoor spaces will promote sustainability for the school and local community’.