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Sector Schools

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Architecture that reflects a school’s identity

Every school has its own culture, history and ambitions. We design buildings that strengthen that identity - whether through contemporary additions, sensitive heritage refurbishments or carefully considered new facilities. Our work respects what makes each school unique while giving it the confidence to evolve, creating environments that feel distinctive, grounded and forward-looking.

Each project is shaped by the values of the institution it serves, ensuring the architecture becomes an extension of its educational vision rather than a generic backdrop.

Designed for academic and personal growth

At the heart of every school is the experience of its pupils. We create spaces that support learning, creativity, independence and wellbeing - from specialist science and art facilities to performance spaces, libraries and informal social areas.

Our designs recognise that education extends far beyond the classroom. By carefully integrating indoor and outdoor environments, we create settings that encourage exploration, confidence and personal development, supporting pupils at every stage of their education.

Heritage handled with care and confidence

Many schools occupy historic estates, listed buildings or sensitive sites. We have extensive experience working within these contexts, ensuring that new interventions respect architectural character while delivering the performance, accessibility and flexibility that modern education demands.

From the careful adaptation of historic structures to the insertion of contemporary buildings within established campuses, our work balances preservation with progress.

A partnership-led design process

Schools know their communities better than anyone. We approach every project as a partnership, working closely with heads, bursars, estates teams and teaching staff to understand how each school operates - and how it aspires to grow.

Through listening, dialogue and collaboration, we shape design solutions that respond to real educational needs while drawing on insight from across our wider education, heritage and community work.

Built to perform, built to last

Educational buildings must be robust, efficient and easy to maintain. Our technical and sustainability-led approach ensures that school buildings are comfortable, energy-efficient and economical to run over the long term.

Using BIM, ISO-accredited quality systems and in-house sustainability expertise, we deliver buildings that are carefully coordinated, future-proofed and designed to adapt as teaching methods, technology and pupil numbers evolve.

From small interventions to campus-wide change

Whether delivering a single specialist building or guiding the phased evolution of an entire school estate, we bring clarity, consistency and design quality to every stage of the journey.

Our work demonstrates how thoughtful architecture can enrich campus life, enhance reputation and create inspiring environments that support generations of pupils.

Respecting tradition, designing for tomorrow

1962 Year OA was founded
2040 Net-zero carbon commitment
100% Focus on long-term building performance

Projects