Nature inspired spaces at Cooee Primary School Kindergarten

Cooee, Tasmania, Australia

Client: Department of Education

Sector: Education and Science

Cooee Primary School Kindergarten demonstrates how early learning environments can nurture inclusivity, accessibility and a connection to nature. Designed as part of the existing school precinct, the kindergarten responds to the evolving needs of young learners through spaces that are safe, adaptable and welcoming.

At a glance

Cooee Primary School Kindergarten demonstrates how early learning environments can nurture inclusivity, accessibility and a connection to nature. Designed as part of the existing school precinct, the kindergarten responds to the evolving needs of young learners through spaces that are safe, adaptable and welcoming.

The challenge

Design and deliver a new kindergarten facility within the existing school precinct comprising a new open learning area, offices, storage, amenities and an outdoor playground.

Our response

Indoor learning and play environments seamlessly flow into a delightful landscape benefiting the children with expanded play opportunities and the staff with supervision ease. Outdoor exploration is encouraged with rolling paths, intersecting colourful tricycle circuits, lawns, natural elements and a sandpit. Each experience is differentiated by cues for movement, footfall, sounds, speed and play.

Timber lined soffits and the entry space provide a sheltered transition from the outdoors to the inside where the array of engaging spaces varies from seating for small group socialisation and more structured activities to quiet nooks for individual reading. Practical, durable floor finishes are complemented by the warmth of natural timber furniture and shelving.

The master plan and consultant coordination, led by our team, resulted in a design that maximises natural light, connects with the existing tree canopy and strengthens links to school amenities.

The impact

Cooee Primary School Kindergarten is a model for inclusive and responsive early learning environments. By integrating universal design, safety and nature-inspired elements, it lays the foundation for joyful, connected and enduring educational experiences.