As part of their A-Level Design and Technology course, this year’s Lower Sixth students have once again embarked on an exciting live brief: to design a new pavilion for the Hurst campus. The project offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with real-world design challenges and collaborate with professionals from the architecture and construction industries.
Acting as their client is Head of College, Dominic Mott, who provides the students with a clear vision and set of requirements for the pavilion. Supporting the project are Old Johnian and experienced project manager Robert Ebdon, along with award-winning architect Mike Lawless, whose expertise helps guide the students through the complexities of architectural design and planning.
This annual initiative continues to be a highlight of the DT curriculum, giving students hands-on experience in client consultation, concept development, and professional collaboration. It also encourages them to think critically about sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics in the built environment.
The trip began at Lord’s Cricket Ground, where the group met Robert Ebdon in his role as Estates Director. He shared valuable insights into design and construction processes, as well as the financial considerations behind large-scale projects. The students were also treated to a tour of the iconic venue, including the historic Long Room and the futuristic Barclays Media Centre, providing an inspiring contrast of tradition and innovation that set the tone for the rest of the day
The group then travelled to the Barbican in the City of London, one of the most significant examples of Brutalist architecture in the UK. During their guided tour, students explored the complex’s bold geometric forms, elevated walkways, and the interplay between residential, cultural, and public spaces. Particular attention was paid to the use of raw concrete, which defines the Barbican’s aesthetic and structural identity. Students learned how the architects Chamberlin, Powell, and Bon used the material not only for its durability but also to express texture and form, creating a sense of monumentality and cohesion across the site.
The students returned from the trip full of inspiration, reflecting on how the experience deepened their understanding of architectural design and the impact of material choices on both function and atmosphere. Back in the classroom, students are now beginning to apply the insights gained from their architectural tour to their own pavilion designs.
