The concept of ‘nurture’ is generally confined to early years education – but not at Jedburgh Grammar. Here, the empathetic cut-off when students move into secondary education is swerved, thanks to a design that prioritises their mental health and well-being. Stallan-Brand Architecture + Design’s approach has created flexible spaces that allow students to take ownership of their space, and instead of generic classrooms offers a variety of places for students to learn, present, socialise, make and retreat.

The £32 million campus, completed in March 2020, is a partnership project between hub South East and Scottish Borders Council, with BAM Construction as the main contractor.

The campus is an innovative learning space which serves 2 to 18-year-olds, as well as providing further education opportunities and community facilities. It replaces all three schools in the town and has the provision for nursery, primary, secondary and additional support needs pupils. Community facilities include a multi-use games area, 2G hockey pitch, 3G sports pitch, 100m synthetic running track, 300m grass track and gym.

Alongside classrooms, there is a rural skills area and flexible hall space that can be used for multiple activities such as community events, sport, dance or drama classes and a café. The public library and contact centre are also be housed on the campus, which aims to cater for all ages of the community in one location.

The full shortlist includes:

• Forth Valley College – Falkirk Campus, Falkirk by Reiach and Hall Architects
• High Sunderland, Galashiels by Loader Monteith
• Jedburgh Grammar Campus, Jedburgh by Stallan-Brand Architecture + Design
• Lockerbie Sawmill, Lockerbie by Konishi Gaffney
• Quarry Studios, Aberdeenshire by Moxon Architects

Images by Andrew Lee