Thomas House
Architect
Reaching the topping out milestone at Bohunt Wokingham Sixth (BW6) is a significant moment for the project. We recently joined students, the Bohunt Education Trust, Wokingham Borough Council, Francis Construction and the wider project team to celebrate the progress we have made so far and the role the new facility will play in shaping the future of post-16 education in the area.
For everyone involved, it was a proud moment. It is rewarding to see the building structure complete and the vision for this new sixth form beginning to take shape.
Creating inspiring spaces for Bohunt's Sixth Form students
The project is about more than simply expanding the school estate. It is about responding to a real need. The rural south of Wokingham Borough currently lacks dedicated sixth form provision, meaning many students have had to travel further afield to continue their studies. BW6 will change that by delivering a purpose-built facility for up to 300 sixth form students, alongside capacity for an additional 150 students across the wider school.
The design is focused on creating a learning environment that reflects the next stage of a student’s educational journey. Sixth form is a transitional moment, bridging school, higher education and employment, and the facility plays an important role in supporting that shift. The building has been designed to feel aspirational and more adult in character, giving students a strong sense of identity and independence while remaining fully connected to the wider school campus.
A key part of this is the arrival experience. A dedicated sixth form entrance leads into a striking double-height space, creating a sense of occasion as students enter the building. From there, the design centres around a vibrant social and study hub. Café-style seating, informal learning areas and a Learning Resource Centre encourage collaboration, independent study and social interaction, reflecting the way post-16 learners work.
Alongside these social spaces, the building provides a range of high-quality teaching environments. Specialist facilities for subjects such as Physics, Chemistry and Computer Science sit alongside flexible classrooms and seminar spaces. The double-height hall has also been designed with flexibility in mind, creating a valuable amenity that can support performances, events and gatherings for both the school and the wider local community.
Located along the southern edge of the site, the building completes an important part of the original masterplan. The design strengthens connections between the new building and the existing campus, while creating a welcoming new approach for students. Landscaping proposals enrich the outdoor social and informal learning areas, supporting student wellbeing and providing opportunities for outdoor study and relaxation.
Sustainability has been embedded within the design approach. Passive design measures, careful orientation and strategies to reduce overheating help minimise operational carbon, while provision for photovoltaic panels and energy-efficient systems supports the school’s long-term sustainability ambitions.
When BW6 opens its doors, it will provide a distinctive and inspiring environment for sixth form students, one that supports ambition, independence and opportunity for years to come.
