Oakwood Primary School

Oakwood Primary School, which opened in September 2009, was the first of two schools to be completed in the £14 million Southernway Federation project funded by a Central Government Targeted Capital fund and delivered by Plymouth City Council.

Langley Infants and Langley Junior Schools merged in September 2008 to become Oakwood Primary School.

Existing Langley Infant buildings were extended to create a colourful child-friendly learning environment, including a large extension with seven pod-style classrooms and a studio. There is also an integrated unit for eight pupils from Mount Tamar School that offers an inclusive education for children with special needs.

A central street has been created to zigzag its way through the heart of the school and provides space for break out learning, allowing children to have a personalised learning experience, and a comfort zone for children and teachers to carry out group work. There is no ICT suite as every child in KS2 has their own electronic notebook to work on and KS1 has constant access to ICT in their street area.

The children were involved throughout the design and build process and had a strong input on what sort of environment they would like to learn in, particularly the colour scheme and the interesting landscaping, which includes an ecology area for natural studies and wildlife work, a sensory garden and a mini allotment for each class. There is also a multi-use games area for mini netball and football matches and a range of soft play areas.

Oakwood is very keen to work closely with the local community and now has the facilities for adult learning, and a vast range of clubs and events for all ages. The public also has its own entrance leading into a library, ICT area with a space for a community café.