School Typologies

Abstract

In England, the Department for Education and Skills takes a strategic role in advising and, to a considerable extent, determining the size, layout and organisation of new schools. For example it produces what are called Building Bulletins, which proscribe many critical areas of the design agenda. Similar guidance is promoted by other national systems in Europe and the USA, most of which is developed in an effort to maintain critical standards and in order to control costs. For example, a floor area of 1.8 to 2.2 metres square per pupil is a commonly held standard for schools, whereas, 2.5 to 3.5 metres square is common for early years facilities. Because standards such as this relate directly to the budget provided, even if the designer feels more space is required, they would not be able to afford to do it without going over budget.