A state-of-the-art learning haven for pupils with special needs

In 2012, three classrooms at the Nokuthula Centre and Special School were destroyed in a fire. The school, which provides services to pupils with severe intellectual disabilities, was rebuilt in Lyndhurst by Basil Read and designed by TKDS. Construction of the 10 301m? school began in February 2015 and was completed in October 2017. The new school caters to 560 pupils, aged three to 18, who represent the South African population.

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The original Nokuthula facility was located in Alexandra Township, north of Johannesburg. Initially a warehouse, it was converted into a school. However, space limitations and the need to provide additional services for the learners have always posed significant challenges. The project aimed to address these issues and build upon the school’s achievements.

In addition to meeting the urgent needs of Nokuthula Special School, the facility was designed to serve as a resource centre for special schools in the district, supporting them through teaching and educator training. Specialised care facilities such as therapeutic swimming pools, will be available for use by learners from other special schools.

The school, which complies with “SMART” standards defined by the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), also includes suitable sporting facilities to accommodate learners with special needs.

It is a combined school with all levels of learning. Part of its offering is a boarding facility and most importantly vocational facilities.

Furthermore, the facility clearly distinguishes between day spaces and night spaces, while also separating children according to their learning levels. Each learning level provides a sense of individuality, security and belonging.

Extensive research, both local and international, was conducted for this project, with every detail carefully considered. A key objective was to shift the stigma surrounding facilities for people with disabilities, transforming the perception from negative to positive.