Nestled beneath Winder Hill in Scenic Cumbria, Sedbergh Independent Boarding School established in 1525, has developed a reputation for being a diverse organisation ranked as one of the top boarding schools in the UK.

With academic excellence at the core of every Sedberghian’s experience, JS+P were invited to design a new sixth form centre at Queen’s Hall. The project was centred on a deep understanding of the school’s rich heritage and traditions, and blending this with a set of forward-thinking learning and social spaces that cater to the needs of both pupils and staff alike.

“Eight years ago, I sat on the 17:27 from Piccadilly heading to The Lakes and met Andrew Fleck, the then Headmaster of Sedbergh School. After a really good chat, Andrew said, “One day we should work together. It turns out, we did.”

Jasper Sanders | Director, Jasper Sanders + Partners

A contemporary design aesthetic was essential for Sedbergh, with the scheme intended to feel fresh, current and bold – a stark contrast to the traditional architecture of Queen’s Hall. The design sought to blend heritage with innovation, which would assist in creating a transitional environment that would prepare students for life beyond school, particularly as they moved toward university. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscapes, the studio sourced the palette from a local Lake District artist. Bold use of colour reflects the inspired finishes throughout the scheme, with mixes of sulphur yellow and cobalt blue highlighted in the bespoke study booths and partitions.

The atmosphere at Queen’s Hall is now enlivened with a modern workspace, and the hall acting as the central focus, occupying a range of diverse settings flexible for studying independently or in small groups. Offset from this are four rooms, now enriched with a sense of purpose through careful planning; a collaboration room, quiet carriage and two classrooms, which enable students to branch off from the central amenity as they choose.

“When we ask students to keep the noise down, they tell me that the space is designed to encourage us to talk and interact Sir!”

Paul Lucas, BSc (Cardiff), CPsychol | Head of Psychology