Designed by Penoyre & Prasad Architects, the Learning Village is Croydon’s first education PFI development. Innovative planning integrates learning, leisure and support facilities for Ashburton Community School, Ashburton Library, the Continuing Education and Training Service and Croydon Music Service.

The design, construction and management of the facility was procured as part of the government’s Private Finance Initiative by Croydon Council in Partnership with Norwest Holst Construction Ltd.

The landmark design reaffirms the borough’s commitment to design quality and incorporates principles of sustainable development, including passive environmental control and rainwater harvesting. An array of photovoltaic cells integrated into clerestory glazing casts dappled shadows along the three-storey central concourse that runs through the heart of the building.

The Learning Village forms the backdrop to a new civic plaza along Shirley Road, Croydon. The sheltering roof canopy to the main public entrance expresses the metaphor that the facility provides a range of integrated public learning services “under one roof”.

The Village has been designed to provide a stimulating environment for both formal and independent learning, with an emphasis on raising standards, community involvement and lifelong learning.