Edinburgh's Telford College

Success Factors

What Makes The Space Successful?

The design of Telford College building allows users within it to conduct business quickly and spontaneously - they don't have to get bogged down in diaries and bookings, etc as space is very flexible. The open plan design in the staff area means that managers and staff see each other on daily basis which is a great boon for communication.

Built in flexibility and technology easily allows change of use of rooms. Breakout areas next to classrooms allow for a wider range of learning activities.

The social Hub area brings services directly to students.

Staff buy-in has been key and the importance of this was recognised early on. 'Champions' were involved in all areas to help with the transition.

Students see the building as theirs and there is no vandalism.

The College took the risk of improving the quality of catering and hence increasing the price. This has proven very popular and current daily takings equal the former weekly takings.

Members of the local community are using the facilities and feel a sense of ownership of the college.

What Is Innovative About The Design And The Use Of The Space?

The design is innovative in its flexibility and the pervasiveness of technology.

The Learning Streets with their hybrid IT/non IT areas and mix of traditional classrooms and breakout space permit new types of learning activity. The flexible approach to staff working including hot desking and home working is unusual in the sector.

Walls on stairwells and some other areas have not been painted - thus saving money on maintenance and re-painting, this also reduces the amount of time people spend socialising in the areas, therefore reducing potential acts of vandalism.