Perth High School

The project moved from a traditional design to Passivhaus approach during the early design process, which was achieved with minimum disruption to the building form and location, which had already been selected. A ‘fabric first’ design was prioritised, which optimises natural heat gains and comfort, minimising the need for artificial heating and keeping operational carbon emissions and energy costs low. Atelier Ten informed this approach through various environmental studies, considering to deliver an energy performance target in accordance with LEIP Band A to meet the Scottish government’s stringent requirements (67-83kwH/m2/annum).

Perth High School is one of the first and largest Passive House (Passivhaus) schools in Scotland, UK. As a large-scale LEIP (Learning Estate Investment Programme) funded development for Perth & Kinross Council and procured by hub East Central Scotland, the new modern education facility is designed for very low-energy consumption and high-performance impact. Occupying a prominent, elevated site in the west end of the city, the structure delivers a confident expression of a 21st-century school.

This project demonstrates an innovative, detail-driven approach to energy-efficient design, delivered with a strong focus on quality and performance. Bright, naturally lit teaching spaces create modern learning environments that enhance the experience of both students and staff, while supporting wider low-carbon objectives through Passivhaus design principles.

The design features a double height entrance within a perimeter of cellular classroom spaces supported by circulation cores arranged around a series of larger flexible areas for a variety of uses. These areas include a dining and social space which is triple height in parts enjoying a direct, visual and physical connection with the external recreational area. At the heart of the new school, and the focal point of the building, is a multi-purpose auditorium, adjacent to the main entrance providing a dynamic space and arrival point which will be flooded in natural light due to a series of roof lights positioned between the roof trusses that span the triple height space. A series of principal stairways will encourage efficient pupil movement, with only short distances to travel from one department to another, further reinforcing the sense of community within the school.

With the first phase open, Perth High School accommodates up to 1,600 pupils and 140 staff over three stories, supporting occupant wellbeing and reducing carbon emissions for the benefit of the entire community.

In the second phase, demolishing the old school will make way for a new 3G pitch, multi-use games area, cycling pump track and hard and soft landscaping.