Solihull school student

Study Spaces

Unlocking potential through innovative study spaces

Innovative study spaces: A new library to triple usage, foster independent study, and provide multi-purpose meeting rooms.

The Kent Library, once a state-of-the-art facility, is now outdated and underused. Our goal is to transform it into a modern, vibrant library at the heart of the school, reflecting our ambition and purpose. We plan to complete this transformation by December 2025.

Proposed study places diagram
Big School restored and enhanced at the heart of learning.

Modernising Big School

Over the next two years, we aim to redesign and expand the library within the footprint of Big School. This refurbishment will rejuvenate the space, restoring much of the former glory of Big School and repurposing it to better serve future generations. The upgraded library will feature dedicated rooms for Oxbridge, careers, and university preparation, enhanced study facilities and flexible spaces for lectures and meetings. A new glass-walled conference and archive room will modernise the display of our rich history. The library’s footprint will nearly double, with usage expected to rise by 300% or more.

Design and expertise

We have engaged the internationally renowned Luke Hughes and Company to design and supply bespoke furniture. Known for creating inspiring study environments, Luke Hughes has designed libraries for major institutions worldwide. He will collaborate with our retained architect, Ian Brinksman, who has a deep understanding of Solihull School’s needs and history from nearly twenty years of work with us.

Project costs

The total cost for this project is £1.5 million, including VAT. The school has earmarked £500,000 for the work and will need to fundraise the remaining £1 million to proceed.

Construction timeline

Building works are expected to take six to eight months. The current library will close during 2025, with the new facility set to reopen the following year.

Impact on academic life

The new study spaces will significantly enhance the academic experience for all pupils. Third Formers will have lessons in the new Archive Room as part of the Greyhound Programme, Shell Form pupils will have weekly English lessons there and Upper Fifth Form students will use the dedicated spaces for discussing options and career ambitions. Sixth Formers will benefit the most, with timetabled study periods in a contemporary, university-style environment that will foster academic excellence and prepare them for their future studies.

Join us in shaping the future

From our beginnings as a humble free grammar school in Solihull to our current 85 acres across two exceptional campuses, ambition and aspiration have always been at our core. For nearly 500 years, pioneering founders, visionary governance and inspiring teaching have been the lifeblood of our school. Our community has consistently risen to every fundraising challenge, demonstrating a deep commitment to our shared mission.

As we present these exciting projects and plans, we invite you to be part of this legacy. The enhancements we propose will benefit every pupil, aligning with our goals to be academic, ambitious, confident, well-known, innovative and creative.

We warmly encourage you to join us in this endeavor. Your contribution will make a significant impact and continue the proud tradition of giving at Solihull. Be a part of this transformative journey and help us shape the future for every student.

Make your gift today and be a part of Solihull’s enduring legacy.

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