What if I told you that John Perryn Primary School was once considered to be failing its pupils? It is quite a turnaround story. Today, we stand before John Perryn Primary School. It is a beacon of hope in East Acton.
Back in 2006, this school faced potential closure. It needed a radical transformation. The government recognized this and chose John Perryn for its pathfinder scheme. The goal was to demonstrate how failing schools could be revitalized through new facilities.
The old buildings were in terrible condition. They felt more like a cramped detention camp. Teachers did not stay long and parents tried to send their children elsewhere. But the council secured an £8.4 million grant. This was to enhance the school and the surrounding community.
Steve Dunham of Ealing Council saw it as a challenge and an opportunity. He wanted to set a new standard. The old thirties buildings were replaced. The headmistress, Von Smith, described them as absolutely dreadful. A former pupil even joked they resembled Wormwood Scrubs prison.
The new John Perryn Primary School was built just 5 meters from the old one. This allowed a seamless transition for the children. Architect Penoyre & Prasad reoriented the school to face the community. The school now has views across central London. Before you could only see the skyline from a chair.
The design of John Perryn Primary School is linear. Classrooms line the south facing side. Support rooms and a double height assembly hall are on the other side. Light wells bring sunshine to the first floor.
The original plan for John Perryn Primary School included open plan teaching spaces. Teachers vetoed this idea. They believed it would alienate some pupils. The design was changed to include easily removable walls.
The materials used are simple but solid. Red brick and ochre laminate panels create a warm exterior. Inside white walls provide a calm atmosphere.
Outdoor spaces are flexible. Ground floor classrooms have fenced areas. These are shaded by screens. Headmistress Smith says they are great for parent pickups. The landscaped areas are an integral part of John Perryn Primary School. A curved ramp leads to the tarmac yard. In the center is a brick island with an oak tree. Children use this as an outdoor stage.
The children gave John Perryn Primary School the biggest compliment. They said it was just like a high school. The architects wanted a building for everyone.
With community facilities and an open design, John Perryn is a vast improvement. It is now a center of aspiration. The project team worked closely together. This was key to its success.
Since the rebuild, John Perryn Primary School has thrived. It was taken off special measures. Pupil numbers have increased. Other councils have come to see its transformation. John Perryn Primary School stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision and dedication. It has achieved Bronze and Silver awards for being a Healthy School.