Abertillery Comprehensive School – Library refurbishment

Creating a Library & Learning Space to appeal to All

Located in the center of a historic coal mining town in the South Wales Valleys, Abertillery Comprehensive School is among the 40 schools selected for the Welsh Assembly’s Schools Challenge Cymru initiative.

This multi-million-pound program aims to enhance educational outcomes and boost performance in schools throughout Wales.  Challenge schools identified as underperforming—based on banding and various deprivation-related factors—will receive a tailored support package designed to address their specific needs. All participants in this program, including school leaders, teachers, governors, and consortia, will be encouraged to pursue continuous improvement.
The core elements of Schools Challenge Cymru will focus relentlessly on enhancing the quality of teaching and learning through professional development. The program will also promote leadership by cultivating current and future leaders, all grounded in a steadfast belief that every child can achieve when high aspirations are set for all.

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The brief

With funding secured from the programme to refurbish the school library, the project was put out to a competitive tender, which was won by education interiors specialists Innova Design Group.
Entusted with the design, manufacture and installation of furniture for the new library, Innova’s proposed a truly transformative design for Abertillery that creates a 21st century learning environment.  This new space is designed to empower students to become independent learners, aligning with the schools Challenge Cymru’s goal of acheiving swift and positive improvements for students.
The whole project from the design stage right through to the installation has been faultless.

Jodie Withers , Finance & Data Manager

The solution

Inspired by the ‘learning commons’ model, Innova’s design aimed to revitalise the school library experience by creating a vibrant space that promotes individual study, online learning, reading, and group collaboration. This new library encourages all students, particularly those who struggle with reading or are reluctant to visit, to engage with literature and learning.
The design prioritises a flexible environment with adaptable layouts and furniture, fostering teamwork and interaction. Unlike traditional libraries’ quiet, solitary settings, these modern spaces enable students to collaborate, study, and socialise, empowering them to take ownership of their education and develop as independent learners.
Innova developed, manufactured, and installed a variety of furniture that met the school’s vision for a vibrant, unconventional, and welcoming environment.  The design included fixed wall shelving and bright, curved mobile island shelving units to display reading materials and establish distinct areas. Additionally, smaller mobile shelving units and book display stands were incorporated to highlight the latest must-read titles, encouraging ‘impulse’ borrowing among students.
Poseur benches and adaptable tables were installed to create a relaxed environment that encourages independent and collaborative learning. Strategically placed plasma screens enable students to work together on mobile devices and share their projects for discussion. Colorful modular seating, along with flexible stools and desk chairs, fosters a welcoming atmosphere for reading and studying.

Spotlight on interiors

Education

Laboratory & Prep Rooms State-of-the-art, flexible laboratories to engage students and accommodate different teaching styles

Multi-sector

Breakout Spaces Flexible, multi-functional work or social spaces which can be reconfigured quickly and easily

Education

Design & Technology Durable, flexible, multi-functional and safe technology focused environments.

Do you have a project in mind?

We would love to hear from you. Give us a call, email or make an enquiry. We are here to share our expertise and answer your questions.

0161 4775300
hello@innovadesigngroup.co.uk
0161 477 5300
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