Woodroffe Secondary School
The Woodroffe School is located on a stunning site overlooking Lyme Bay. Originally built in the 1930s for 300 students, increasing to 1065 students at the time of intervention. This was accommodated in temporary buildings added over the years to meet rising demand. Footprint Architects were commissioned by the local authority to design a new teaching and library block, expanding the site’s capacity potential.
Sustainability
- Natural ventilation strategy minimises energy use
- Daylight-optimised design enhances learning conditions
- Material selection reflects circular economy principles and longevity
Context & Place
- Sited within an AONB, designed to sit low and discreet in the landscape
- Inspired by 1930s Gothic Revival character of original school buildings
- Cohesively integrated into the sloped terrain of Lyme Regis
People & Communities
- Responds to growing pupil numbers
- Inclusive access via lift and split-level design
- Enhances student experience through uplifting, healthy spaces
A Dynamic Learning Environment for the Future
Originally founded in 1932, The Woodroffe School is a maintained foundation school located in Lyme Regis, Dorset, serving pupils aged 11 to 18. To accommodate growing student numbers and replace outdated facilities within an existing ROSLA block the school received funding to replace facilities under the Priority School Building Programme (Phase 2).
Footprint Architects were commissioned by the local authority—alongside contractor Stepnell—as part of a Design & Build team to deliver the new teaching and library block.
Embedding Architecture into the Landscape
The site presented a distinct challenge: a steeply sloping campus rising over 28 metres from entrance level on Uplyme Road. Nestled into the hillside to the north of existing play areas, the new two-storey block is carefully integrated into the topography with split-level entrances and breathtaking views over Lyme Bay. The building’s position and modest scale within the wider campus minimise visual impact and preserve the character of the surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Heritage-Inspired, Future-Ready Design
Informed by a detailed context study, the building takes cues from the Gothic Revival language of the school’s original 1932 structure, balancing tradition with contemporary detailing. The massing, rhythm, and form of the new teaching block respond sympathetically to the existing built fabric, fostering a cohesive and legible school campus.
An external landscaping strategy incorporating new tree planting – further roots the new facility within its setting and supports biodiversity.
Improving Educational Outcomes
Internally, the design prioritises accessibility and comfort. Classrooms are arranged around a central circulation spine that features both a stair and lift, promoting inclusive access across levels. Generous glazing floods learning spaces with daylight and celebrates panoramic views toward the coastline—enhancing wellbeing and engagement.
Sustainable by Design
Aligned with Footprint’s ethos of low-energy design, the building harnesses the site’s orientation to support natural ventilation and passive solar gain. A palette of robust, high-quality materials—chosen to reflect local vernacular—ensures long-term durability while reducing embodied carbon. This passive-first approach enables reduced reliance on energy-intensive mechanical systems, lowering operational emissions over time.
Relevant Projects
Transforming a Historic College Building into a Contemporary Hub
Award Winning Entrance Pavilion & Expansion of a Grade II Listed Victorian School
Get Your Project Off The Ground
Get in touch today to kick-start your project. Let us know a few details and we’ll be in touch to discuss bringing your vision to life. Or call us on 01202 818 966