Leeds Mathematics School
Engaging students with a refreshed specialist sixth form college layout
Leeds Mathematics School, part of The GORSE Academies Trust, is a specialist sixth form college in the heart of Leeds for students who are gifted in maths. After opening its doors in 2023, senior leaders wanted to refurbish the sixth form to better reflect its ethos and to help inspire students on their journeys to top-tier universities and placements.
The brief
Richardsons was brought in to overhaul the layout and furniture of the Leeds sixth form, including in the canteen areas, IT suites, and various breakout and study spaces across Leeds Mathematics School. The aim was to create an exciting and inspiring environment for students across Leeds to receive an excellent mathematical education.
The post-16 provision design needed to incorporate the brand colours of blue and orange in a balanced way, while using durable, high-quality materials able to withstand student use.
Our approach
Student design panel: We worked closely with students at Leeds Mathematics School to create the final sixth-form designs and manage the project budget.
Designing with the building: As Leeds Mathematics School is housed in an existing building in the centre of Leeds rather than a new build, it contains character and quirks, particularly in its layout. Rather than fighting against this, our team worked with the space to maximise it, incorporating sofa areas and quiet study zones into corners and recesses.
Recycling existing furniture: We reupholstered damaged furniture for reuse and helped redistribute the sixth form college’s remaining furniture across The GORSE Academies Trust, ensuring nothing that remained fit for purpose went to waste.
The result
Leeds Mathematics School’s learning environments are now attractive, engaging, and fit to serve students for years to come.
IT suites
Replanned and refurbished IT suites offer students the space and equipment to work on projects individually or in groups.
Refectory areas
Refectory and café spaces feature attractive, hard-wearing furniture designed to stand the test of time.
Social seating
Comfortable sofas and soft seating throughout the Leeds sixth form provide space to study and socialise.
Scenic study space
The top floor has been converted into a focused library space with a view over Leeds city centre.
The impact
The new sixth form furniture and layout are well-loved by current learners and are a key feature in attracting prospective students, too. The hard-wearing materials are holding up well even with extensive use, providing attractive and durable spaces for current and future sixth-form students of Leeds Mathematics School.
