Learning garden first use of Perrot Court

The covered outside area has already been enjoyed by both students and staff as a place to study, socialise, and relax.

‘It’s such a great place for students,’ said principal Jenny Palmer.

‘There is lighting as well so it can be used in the darker mornings when the students come in and for events in the evening.’

The learning garden has proved popular at break and lunchtimes, as well as being used for some lessons.

Mrs Palmer said it was also great to be learning outdoors during the pandemic.

‘The student council has requested that older students have lessons there too,’ she added.

The project is in conjunction with educational specialist architects Levitt Bernstein and main contractors RG Falla, who have ensured there is flexible seating and plenty of pollinators in the surrounding planters.

Plans also include the re-purposing of existing buildings to ensure the site is used in the most effective way in addition to the creation of new facilities in the Perrot Court building.

Mrs Palmer said Perrot Court would be operational from September 2022, providing work went smoothly.

‘We are very hopeful we will meet that timeline,’ she said.

The initial phase of works includes a new suite of social sciences classrooms, a student hub with extensive library and study spaces, a new reception area, meeting rooms, and an enlarged Sixth Form Centre including dedicated study and social areas to accommodate the growing numbers of Sixth Form Students.

. A walk-through tour of the Perrot Court project is available on the college website https://bit.ly/3BQ5HGy

OE’s legacy put towards new garden

THE legacy of Old Elizabethan and former Dead Donkey Club member St John Robilliard will be celebrated through the Elizabeth College Learning Garden.

The garden was opened by officially by former Bailiff Sir Richard Collas, who was a school friend of Mr Robilliard, in the presence of many of Mr Robilliard’s former colleagues and friends.

‘He was one of those people you don’t forget – he had a presence in the school and was different to other people,’ said Sir Richard.

‘St John was a very honourable person with great integrity and intellect.’

Mr Robilliard died in 2015, leaving a financial legacy to Elizabeth College which has been used in the Perrot Court development as well as the new bursary scheme.

‘St John greatly valued the fact that college gave him the opportunity to develop his character and develop to his full potential,’ Sir Richard added.

‘He was very enthusiastic about education and giving others the same opportunities he had in life.’

Sir Richard said he met Mr Robilliard for the first time 60 years ago this autumn and described him as a great thinker and keen to be different.

‘His memory will continue to flourish in this spot and college will flourish how he wanted it to.’

Elizabeth College principal Jenny Palmer said: ‘We are really grateful for St John Robilliard’s generosity.’

She said the Learning Garden was also funded through the Chance of a Lifetime appeal, to which many people contributed.