Opening Doors Opening Minds
A publication by Sheppard Robson
We partnered with Sheppard Robson to deliver the very first Camden Highline Education Programme and we thought we’d share some of our favorite extracts from their publication Opening Doors Opening Minds that includes projects that have been both practice-led and self-initiated, either by providing the time, space or patronage to bring them to fruition.
Looking at the architecture industry, as well as the wider built environment and creative industries, there is an essential need for greater diversity.
The challenge of addressing this issue is made even more acute considering the cost of design education — architectural thinking should not be done in an ivory tower and design education should not be a luxury item.
If we don’t address issues of diversity and inclusivity then our industry, cities and communities will be worse off. This reality is the basis for the Sheppard Robson’s focus on community engagement initiatives that engage young people in architecture, design, and the arts more broadly.
‘Reimagining the Camden Highline gives Camden’s Young People the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills on a local live project enabling participatory design outcomes. Young people taking part are ages where they are making decisions that affect their future education and career prospects. Our programme helps Camden’s Young People, regardless of background, ave access to the very best opportunities that the Borough has to offer.’
— Adam Richards, Head of Project, Camden Highline
Sheppard Robson provided support through funding, materials, and time for workshops with local primary and secondary students from Torriano and Regent High schools. The workshops focused on developing ideas for the Camden Highline, which were then showcased at an exhibition at the Camden Image Gallery.
‘I designed an aquarium with tunnels leading through to it. A bridge goes over ith a beautiful grassy walkway for people to enjoy the view… It will be underneath a round tunnel with fish swimming everywhere… It should also contain information about the fish and articles about single use plastic water bottles. The aquarium we thought was a good idea for children to look at fish and to have time apart from their parents (I need time away from my parents a lot)!’
— Torriano School Year 5 Student
‘The project gave an insight into the working world of a design, engineer or architect thanking them out of their comfort zone where often the answers are provided for them. Their ability to problem solve was stretched and challenged which over time encouraged a feeling of real pride in their work.’
— Charlie Welch, Head of Art & Design Technology Faculty, Regents High School
‘This experience was greatly enhanced for the students by working with Sheppard Robson volunteers, who helped them consolidate their ideas and make models of their final designs.’
— Venetia Wolfenden, Founding Director, Urban Learners
Both actively working to improve the neighbourhood and being involved with the project in a teaching capacity, immediately improves my outlook as a resident, while impacting the future of local children. I hope the work instils the importance of community for local children and inspires them to engage with architecture in the future.
This project has inspired me to look at design in a new light, reinforcing the fact that the youngest members of the community are really engaged and aware of social issues — such as disability access and sustainability — showing that these issues should be at the forefront of our minds as designers.
— Paula Imperatore, Architectural Assistant, Sheppard Robson
I find this initiative important because it brings to children notions of architecture and encourages them to care and think about the city and the neighbourhood they live in. It also promotes a participatory and inclusive attitude in the design process, with architects and urban designers sharing their knowledge while remainingopen to listen different opinions.
— Alexandra Goulds, Architectural Assistant, Sheppard Robson
‘We are delighted to be supporting the work of Urban Learners and Camden High Line Education Project. It means a lot to us as a local practice to contribute to a project that stimulates pupils to engage with design in the broadest sense — embracing all STEAM subjects on proposals that will positively affect their own environment. It has been encouraging to see genuine enthusiasm and interest from the participants and fantastic that the output from the workshops is being exhibited.’
— Lee Bennett, Partner, Sheppard Robson
What’s Next?
Information about a bigger and better Education Programme — coming soon!
Get Involved
We want the Education Programme to grow and expand as the Highline develops. If you’re a school, community group, funder, or built environment professional and interested in partner opportunities please get in touch.
