Britannia Primary School

Client:       Newham Council

Budget:     £35,000

Date:          November 2008

The key element of this project was providing a growing space and outdoor classroom for primary school children using sustainable systems. Rainwater is collected from the classroom roof and stored in recycled plastic tanks. The overflow feeds a bog garden with a solar powered water feature. An irrigation system was required for the vegetable growing, but rather than rely on solar, wind or other sustainable power, a bespoke system was designed using child power! A water wheel turned by the children scoops up the rainwater collected from the roof. The children can then direct the water through moveable gutters to water the plants, creating a completely interactive and engaging watering system. The greenhouse was designed and constructed using recycled plastic drinking bottles collected by the children over the summer holidays. The children worked with Green Dreams to plant the space which is bounded by a native hedgerow and espaliered apple trees. Grape vines are trained to grow and cover the fences. Giant test tubes made of Perspex allow for composting and soil experiments where the soil action can be seen through the perspex.