This project for an independent secondary school creates a new Sixth Form Centre and an Assembly Hall. The new Sixth Form Centre consists of social and study areas, classrooms and administration space. The new building provides an educational environment appropriate for the 21st century and to deliver the new International Baccalaureate Curriculum. The 420 seat assembly hall will be used for performances, both for school functions and public events. The design is a modern and contemporary response, whilst still relating to the history and heritage of the School. The project achieved planning approval in the context of a conservation area and under close scrutiny from the planning department, conservation department and English Heritage. Cottrell and Vermeulen worked closely with all stakeholders to achieve a design which is both sympathetic to its context, and makes a new, forward looking statement for both school and town.