THE ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE OF THE EXTENSION OF COMPULSORY EDUCATION IN THE UK

In 1973 the United Kingdom introduced the so-called RoSLA (Raising of the School Leaving Age) law, which increased the period of compulsory schooling by one year. A seemingly small change in the law that placed the whole country in a dilemma with the force of a tsunami: how could the additional classroom space be provided at short notice? A quick fix was possible by so called Scola blocks.

The solution proposed to satisfy the sudden need for additional classroom space caused by the coming into force of the RoSLA law was the erecting of pre-fabricated so-called RoSLA buildings.

In 1973, this was the most cost-effective and, above all, most rapid answer to the issue of additional space. But for some time it has been clear that, in terms of energy usage alone, these buildings are no longer in keeping with the times. The successful redevelopment of the Quilley School is considered to be a pilot project and good reference object with regard to this architectural heritage.

Speed was also a key issue with regard to the redevelopment, in order to avoid disrupting teaching activities more than absolutely necessary. With regard to facade cladding, the London based architectural agency HCC Property Services decided to make use of the breathable External Thermal Insulation Composite System, featuring Keravette^® metallic black cladding. As a result of this redevelopment project, HCC Property has not only once again confirmed its reputation for high quality and sustainable architecture in the field of public buildings, but has also provided a reference object with regard to the redevelopment of RoSLA buildings.