Kingsbrook Secondary School

Name: One Darnley Road
Price range: $

Aylesbury, UK

Services

Sectors

Schools and Colleges

People

project overview

An inclusive, supportive and inspiring learning environment

Set within the nature-rich Kingsbrook development, this new secondary school provides an inclusive and inspiring environment for 1,080 students - including sixth formers and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Building on the success of our neighbouring primary school design, the secondary school, developed from a concept design by ADP, reflects its setting and supports the ambitions of a growing community. A deep understanding of the site and future staff and students shaped every aspect of the design.

The school places student experience at its heart, while supporting accessibility and inclusivity throughout. Naturally lit, well-ventilated classrooms create calm and focused spaces for learning, while a clear, three-storey layout supports intuitive wayfinding. Encouraging a sense of belonging, a central spine connects distinct zones for teaching, support and social interaction.

design concept

A design rooted in purpose

Our design for the school was informed by the school's role as both a centre for education and a civic building within its growing neighbourhood.

The three-storey structure is arranged around two landscaped courtyards, creating a central spine of learning and support spaces, while allowing natural light and ventilation to flood into key areas.

Different functional zones are housed in four connected blocks - classrooms, dining and library spaces, a sports hall and a dedicated SEND unit.

The layout enables community use of facilities like the sports hall and main hall, without compromising security or daily school operation.

The materials palette was chosen to reinforce the school’s identity while referencing the Kingsbrook landscape. Subtle textured details create a building that feels civic, warm and welcoming.

landscape design

An environment that promotes movement, connection and joy

The school’s outdoor spaces are designed to encourage movement and recreation, supporting student wellbeing while also welcoming the broader community and aligning with the environmental vision of the wider Kingsbrook development.

Inspired by the site’s natural setting, the landscape strategy retains and enhances mature hedgerows along the boundaries and preserves a green corridor along a former railway line, contributing to the site’s ecological value.

The building is thoughtfully integrated into its surroundings, with planting and gentle topography helping to soften its presence in the landscape.

A variety of outdoor spaces, including a 3G pitch, grass playing fields, MUGA, trim trail, horticulture area and dedicated SEND play zones, are provided alongside informal areas such as the landscaped pedestrian and cycle approach and outdoor dining spaces.

sustainability

Active, sustainable and safe

The school has been designed to meet the highest environmental standards, with green roofs enhancing biodiversity, sustainable drainage strategies in place, and materials selected for durability and performance.

Promoting healthier methods of travel, students are encouraged to walk or cycle to school with the support of generous bike and scooter storage and a pedestrian-friendly entrance at the south-east corner.

For those with additional needs, a dedicated drop-off point ensures safe and simple access.

key information

Project summary

Location

Buckinghamshire, HP22 7BR

Client

Morgan Sindall

Value

£41m

Completion

2022

Includes

Flexible classrooms
Specialist teaching spaces
Main hall and activity studio
3G all-weather pitch
Grass sports fields and MUGA
Landscaped courtyards
Outdoor dining areas

Team