After Care School Pod

The client required an expansion for their childcare facility and the flexibility to transport the new prefabricated structure to a temporary site. In response, RSAAW designed a CLT module After School Care Pod that offers easy assembly at the new location. Furthermore, it can be later transported back to the original school grounds, providing a versatile solution.

The CLT module is designed to Passive House standards for superior thermal performance. All materials in the prefabricated assemblies are designed to be taken apart and reused or recycled as required.

The After School Care Pod allows for a gallery/lobby entry, cubby hall, offices, play/learning area, and ample windows to provide supervision and daylighting. The cladding system features a playful colour study intended to stimulate and be easily recognizable by children.

The use of primary shapes and forms in the building elements gives opportunities for imagination and education. Such elements provide stimulating play areas to challenge balance and other early childhood development fundamentals. These engaging opportunities offer an environment for play-based exploration and learning.

As a prefabricated childcare centre prototype, current risk-adverse commercial models were evaluated. Additionally, reassessed superseded early childhood rationales were taken into consideration.