Using our GEN Zero Pathfinder project Wellfield Academy as a case study, Ben joined AHR director Imran Kassim and Endeavour Learning Trust Director of Operations and Estates Jack Snowdon, on the Sustainability Stage to share how the project is applying the biophilic principals of GEN Zero to push forward the next generation of schools design.
The GENZero approach is that we should be ‘Designing With Nature’. Fundamental to this are school sites with separate buildings that allow green fingers to push between them allowing a better connection to the outside space to support student wellbeing, engagement, and achievement.
Ben explained how at Wellfield the building and its site will operate together as one and the external environment will play a fundamental role in supporting the principles of zero carbon design and operation use. The importance of using ‘Nature Based Solutions’ to cool the site and buildings, deal with rainfall and improve air quality; whilst at the same time creating purposeful spaces for learning and the operation of the school.