Ecole Secondaire Catholique Jean Vanier

This 2 storey secondary school replaces an existing school elsewhere in the City of Welland. Instructional spaces in the new school will include 11 classrooms, 1 computer lab, 3 science labs, music, art and theatre arts rooms, transportation and construction and technology rooms. Support spaces will include an administration and guidance wing, a cafetorium with server, a library, chapel, hospitality area and a full-size gymnasium to host OFSAA events. While primarily a secondary school, Ecole Jean Vanier will also integrate grade 7 and 8 students typically associated with the senior elementary level. Internally the novel design of 5 classrooms permits them to be subdivided to flexibly accommodate smaller teaching applications or limited student groups based upon enrollment.

Sustainable design concepts were incorporated into the building design to improve the indoor environment and provide building operating cost savings. Rainwater is collected from the roof drains and directed to a cistern located below the stage and used for grey water and irrigation of the playfield. Day lighting is used in the gymnasium as a supplemental light source by means of Solotube skylights. Cooling loads are reduced by use of sun shades on the exterior and an interior light shelf reflects natural light deeper into the spaces to reduce the need for electric lighting.

Client
Mon Avener Conseil Scolaire Catholique

Location
Welland