Built in response to extensive observation, consultation and research, this award-winning Pupil Referral Unit improves the life chances of the children who use the educational environment the building provides. Yomi Adewoye, Headteacher of Southward Inclusive Learning Service (SILS 3), said: “Our new building is an investment for the pupils who attend SILS, and also for the whole community. It shows our students that we value and care about them, and that’s a really crucial factor in their journey of self-worth. The building […] is having a profound impact on how we operate as a school.” The old building, a former children’s home, was ill suited to its purpose. In contrast, Tim Ronalds Architects’ spacious and light-filled design is based on careful consideration of the life of a PRU and the design factors that could benefit children and teachers. The new building was built in the playground of the building it was to replace, and had to be shaped to fit around it; there was barely a metre between old and new. Cheerful and optimistic, the outside of the new SILS 3 is made of near-white brick and large windows, with an interior of oak floors, maple joinery and pine ceilings that is very robust without feeling armoured or brutal. The building is highly sustainable with minimised energy use, by passive means where possible. Great attention has been paid to every aspect of design, from the layout to finishes and details, to ensure that the facilities work well and can be easily maintained. The result is a calm and safe new school that sets a new standard for this kind of centre, which has been recognised with a RIBA London and National Award, New London Award and Civic Trust Award. Photo credits Jim Stephenson