Junior Open House

May-June 2009

Architecture and the built environment is something that has an impact on all our daily lives but it is the one thing we generally don’t learn about.  Open House has been delivering architecture education programmes for over 10 years and works with 3,000 young people a year. All of our education programmes are FREE to schools and draw on our experience as a leader in the field of architecture education.

The programme

Junior Open House is a comprehensive and packed programme for primary school students in year 5 and 6 (8-11 year olds). The programme brings students into contact with key pieces of exemplary London architecture. Building explorations encourage young people to become ‘architectives’, to look for clues, learn design skills and see ways in which people use space. This direct experience leads on to creative workshops in the classroom.

Theme

The theme for this year’s programme was sustainable sports buildings. The project brief was to ‘design a sustainable sports building for an alternative Olympic sport of the student's choice’.

Project dates

1. Training Seminar, Wednesday 1 April 2009
This training session offered opportunities to develop fresh ideas whilst also providing practical help for teachers and architects preparing for Junior Open House.

2. Building explorations, 11 – 15 and 25 – 29 May 2009
Each class took part in a half- day building exploration.  Open House provides on-site activities and resources. Architects/designers led the exploration along with an Open House representative. Every effort was made to match buildings that complement planned or existing schemes of work.

3. Classroom workshops, 8 – 12 and 15 – 19 June 2009
After the building exploration, architects went into the classroom and worked with students on their project design briefs. 

Junior Open House first prize winning model4. Competition and awards event, 9 July 2009
At the end of the project we invited students to submit their work to the Junior Open House awards. A prestigious reception showcased the collaborations between students and architects, with prizes presented.

For more detailed information please contact Jenny Wedgbury, Education Officer by email or phone on 020 7383 5722

Resources

 

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