* Image: Steve Hall

Project Summary

Beam has operated a number of programmes with schools, and in recent years has supported schools with the Building Schools for the Future programme. Our first programme ‘Suppose’ was in 2007, supporting two schools in Barnsley that were merging as part of the BSF process, which resulted in a sketchbook and ideas for the new school. In 2008 we delivered ‘Vision’ with Bradfield School in Sheffield.

Suppose enabled students from two schools to work collaboratively and share their ideas and aspirations for their new learning environment.  The project explored how the school could look but also how it should feel.

At the heart of the Vision programme was the desire to provide young people with the skills and knowledge to allow them to voice their ideas for the design specifications for their new school. We aimed to raise young people’s aspirations about design and increase understanding about integrating public art into new school buildings and school grounds. Beam also aimed to work creatively with partners to help participants become better clients in preparation for the consultation process with the architects.

“The ‘Suppose’ project is a great example of engaging students creatively in the BSF process, and in supporting them to become well-informed clients.”

Rebecca Bracey, BSF-Culture.

What did we do?

Inspirational Site Visits
Pupils visited an inspirational place: Sheffield City Centre, where they had the chance to explore some of the amazing public realm that has been developed and the public art that has been integrated into the public realm. Pupils were encouraged to photograph, write and draw about anything they found interesting on the visit. When returning to school pupils took part in a number of challenges including creating a ‘cool wall’.

Creative Workshops
Pupils participated in 2 one-day workshops. Working with Beam, an artist and architect they explored their feelings towards their current school, heard from the artist about public art and their work and were introduced to the BSF process and how the architects would involve them as students. Pupils then took this knowledge to work in groups focusing on different parts of the school i.e. playground, social area, canteen etc. and used collage, drawing, photography and model making to change the space with public art in mind.

What did we achieve?

Pupils felt that they had an opportunity to express their own thoughts and ideas about their new schools and in the Suppose project, that they all had a chance to get to know each other in a safe, neutral environment.

For both projects Beam organised a small exhibition complete with Private View to showcase the work of the young people and the school’s enthusiasm for engaging young people in the process.

“It doesn’t have to be square!”

Priory pupil comment

The Suppose project resulted in a sketchbook of ideas and vision and a mini toolkit for young people which includes quick creative activities they can do to explore places and spaces.