Extending the playground: A new urban school design

Macquarie Park is one step closer to its new urban primary school, after School Infrastructure NSW (SINSW) revealed our preliminary design concepts.

The contemporary learning environment prioritises collaboration between students and teachers, outdoor teaching spaces, and connecting with Country and community.

The site sits within the new Midtown precinct, located 15kms northwest of Sydney CBD in one of the city’s major growth areas. The new school will cater for 750 students from Kindergarten through to Year 6 to meet anticipated enrollment demand which is projected to triple by 2041.

Principal Alan J Duffy said, “Our design process focused on ‘Extending the Playground’ for students, by providing access to outdoors on every level. The multi-level play space forms the building façade itself, by activating the school and placing play on display.”

The design of the new six-storey building comprises flexible learning spaces, administration and staff facilities, canteen, multipurpose hall, library and covered outdoor learning areas. A rooftop playscape includes a running track, a perimeter net for ball games, table settings and performance stage. The ground floor features a multipurpose hall, covered outdoor learning areas, a climbing wall and a natural garden. Students can also catch a slide from Level 1 to the ground floor.

“The elevated playgrounds maximise opportunities to connect students with the outdoors, promoting wellbeing for the school and local community.”

The project’s State Significant Development (SSD) application has been lodged with the Department of Planning and Environment.’

Read more about new school design with insights from Principal Alan J Duffy on how education projects can incorporate nature to create healthier, more connected and supportive learning environments here.