CathWest Innovation College’s (CWIC) operational mantra is to provide education that offers a different way to learn and it was this progressive approach that set the tone for the design.

The school was rebranded as ‘CathWest Innovation College’ in 2019. It is open to students in years 10-12 and provides a learning environment that encourages students to self-direct their learning journey.

The existing buildings, whilst having ‘good bones’, were inward looking, monotone and not conducive to inspiring young minds. The new approach to learning involved the collaboration between teachers, and industry experts who work along-side students to carry out real world learning projects.

With this new approach in mind, the traditional structure of the existing campus did not allow for this progressive pedagogy.

A detailed masterplan was developed for the College that allowed for the development of the College to create spaces that allowed the forward-thinking educational model to take place. This involved a complete refurbishment of almost 50% of the buildings. The spaces are open and light with the newest technology to enhance the learning for students.

The redevelopment of the existing Loyola High School to CathWest Innovation College has created a unique learning environment that encourages students to self-direct their learning journey.

The design creates spaces that are both visually and educationally inspiring. Furthermore, the building refurbishment, conceived as part of a strategic masterplan, showcases how the architectural team skillfully rationalised and re-invigorated a dysfunctional traditionally configured school site into a highly legible and engaging learning environment.

The design solution challenges our understanding of modern learning, while demonstrating how place can connect pedagogy with the physical environment. The resultant building is vibrant and inspiring to both student and teacher and is the embodiment of the educational vision and brief.