Overnewton Anglican Community College Yirramboi Campus - New Middle School Building

Overnewton Anglican Community College’s new middle school facility is a flexible learning environment which has transformed a previously isolated area into an energised focal point. Comprising fifteen learning areas arranged around a tiered ‘Central Commons’, the precinct is consolidated by a canteen, external (undercover) auditorium and concourses. Overlooking the Maribyrnong Valley (but itself overlooked by the Campus) the building is materially treated as “Terra Firma”; a predominantly ochre-and-basalt object upon the embankment. Internally, a sense of calm is provided through a considered palette, high ceilings, framed views and intensive acoustic treatment. Pedagogical flexibility is paramount, resulting in a diverse range of learning areas, nooks and informal gathering spaces. Meanwhile, all fifteen learning areas have direct access to generous external covered spaces. Despite the challenges presented by the site’s topography, the outcome is a highly successful merging of building and landscape, which provides permeable access and numerous gathering spaces for the entire school community.