VSBA New Schools 2025, Barayip Primary School

Barayip Primary School is a vibrant new learning environment delivered as part of the VSBA’s New Schools 2025 Bundle A Program, in collaboration with Brand Architects. Building on the success of the 2021 and 2024 programs, the project reflects a shared commitment to creating nurturing, inclusive, and nature-connected spaces that support the health and happiness of school communities.

A Cohesive Campus for Learning and Community

The campus is designed as a unified landscape of learning, where architecture and nature flow together to support diverse educational experiences and community engagement. Inspired by the Werribee River, the concept of “flow” is expressed through curved forms, soft geometries, and natural materials that echo the surrounding landscape. Timber, stone, and a calming palette drawn from local rock formations create a warm and welcoming environment.

At the heart of the campus, the Administration and Resource (AR) building acts as a vibrant hub, co-locating library, art, science, and food education spaces. A metal screen featuring Indigenous artwork marks the entrance, while gentle brick curves and timber-lined canopies provide a soft arrival experience. These spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, supporting a wide range of teaching and learning styles.

The School Community Hub, including a multipurpose gymnasium and music/performance spaces, serves as a civic anchor for both school and broader community use. Circular design elements encourage gathering and interaction, with a welcoming foyer that supports informal activities and out-of-hours care. The music room opens to both the gym and the outdoors, creating dynamic opportunities for performance and learning.

Learning Neighbourhood buildings across the campus offer a variety of settings for students from Prep to Year 6. Each building is themed around a local plant or animal, aiding wayfinding and reinforcing identity. Outdoor learning areas are accessible from multiple directions, ensuring equitable access and strong connections to nature. Internally, spatial volumes shift to support different activities—from focused instruction to informal collaboration—while maximizing light and views.

“Our design for Barayip Primary School integrates biophilic principles, cultural narratives, and flexible learning environments to create a campus that is both pedagogically responsive and deeply connected to its local context.”

Jane Sayers, Director, DesignInc