Grounds for Optimism

This is a new awards scheme to help secondary schools plan innovative changes to their grounds. It is an invaluable opportunity to enable young people to gain direct experience of the design process, whilst working on a real and live project that could directly influence the design of their school landscape.

arc is to be leading the ‘Grounds for Optimism’ programme for Yorkshire and Humber schools, a two year project partnered and supported by Integreat Yorkshire.

“‘Grounds for Optimism’ celebrates the abilities of our pupils, and the professional talent in the region, creating a great opportunity to raise the aspirations for excellent design of our regional schools, and to inspire young people to continue into creative, design and built environment careers.” Gillian Dyson, Head of Learning, arc.

Bronze Award

Students follow three clearly set out steps that allow them to explore the design, use and management of the outdoor spaces and develop innovative ideas for change and improvement. To help, there are comprehensive online resources written by school grounds experts.

Silver Award

Students work with a landscape architect to review their ideas and develop a detailed and costed plan for their school grounds. Silver Award recipients receive a grant for professional support from a landscape architect at no charge to the school to develop their plan.

Gold Award

Winners of Silver Award grants will be invited to a regional event to present their final plans and be judged by a panel of top professionals. The design judged to be the best will receive a Gold Award, and a cash grant to transform their grounds.

Update November 2008