Broadwater Farm campus is 'future of education' (From Haringey Independent)

Broadwater Farm campus is 'future of education'

2:48pm Tuesday 16th March 2010 in

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A PLAN to build a first-of-its kind learning campus that will unite three Haringey primary schools was approved last week.

Designed for students to support pupils with differing educational needs, the inclusive campus, to be built in Adams Road, is believed to be first of its kind in the country and has been heralded as "the future of education".

It will bring together pupils from Broadwater Farm Primary School, primary school pupils from Moselle and William C Harvey special schools and an existing children's centre.

Children will be able to enjoy landscaped grounds and a central community area to promote better outdoor lessons and also boasts an amphitheatre, a sensory garden, a wildlife pond, hard and soft play areas.

There will also be a sand and water playground and a multi-use games area.

Inside the new building, children will have use of a hydrotherapy pool, therapy suites, a library, a gym, and a music and drama studio.

Margaret Sumner, current headteacher of William C Harvey, who will lead the special school when it opens in 2011, said: "This 21st century inclusive learning campus will be at the heart of the Broadwater Farm Community.

"It will be inspirational, cutting edge, groundbreaking, visionary and innovative. But most of all, this amazing project is very simply about children. All the children, including those with the most profound and complex of needs, will be learning together in an environment where every child’s needs are met."

Work is due to start later this year and is being funded by grants from central Government.

Dawn Ferdinand, Broadwater Farm Primary School headteacher, said: "The vision of this fabulous project is one of togetherness, learning, playing and developing in a setting which is purpose-built. It brings children of all needs and abilities under one roof, sharing the experiences of our world. This is the opportunity of a lifetime for the children, parents, staff and the local community to grow together as one. This is the future of education."

The facility is also being mooted as bringing opportunities to the whole community inclubreakfast clubs, homework clubs, childcare for children from birth to 11, parenting support and advice on employment, housing and benefits.