The site presents a great opportunity to develop a school that would benefit the community both as educational and inspirational in terms of its construction method. The design approach has focused on simplicity, functionality and ease of construction using local materials.

The concept evolves around the existing tree on site, all existing structures are therefore assumed to be demolished. A central courtyard around the tree will form the heart of the school where children can meet, play and greet each other. The courtyard will also act as the circulation hub to access all facilities.

Bearing in mind that the project will be phased in two parts, the proposed classrooms and their facilities are therefore grouped into two blocks that can be built independently and without disturbing one another. Also part of the strategy is to have a secure boundary by organising the building blocks around the courtyard, leaving a single main entry to the school.

The construction method is based on local materials, the foundation will use salvaged tyres that are filled with compacted sand and clay. The floors and walls of the buildings are made of locally made clay bricks, the roof is conceived as a floating element which allow for the flexibility of the building design underneath it. The roof will use locally sourced corrugated metal sheets and will sit on a separate sophisticated yet very simple bamboo structure. The design of the bamboo structure using interlocking technique is there to inspire young children of what can be achieved with such a beautiful, sustainable material.

Also to inspire and educate the children, a corral and orchard are integrated next to the courtyard where children can learn how to grow their own food. As water resources are very limited, the roof is designed to collect and divert all the rain water towards the central courtyard. In the centre of the courtyard and away from the tree, lies a Venetian well, where the water will be filtered through the layers of sand and will then be collected as potable water.

The classrooms use a different combination of perforated brick walls and have floating roofs which allow for natural ventilation and day light to penetrate the space. This will allow for a more comfortable environment.

The proposed design will leave a lasting impression on the children that will improve their outlook on what they can achieve.