Junior School Building Wins Second Major Award
Notting Hill & Ealing celebrating RIBA London prize
The main entrance to the junior school building. Picture: NHEHS
May 19, 2026
The Junior School at Notting Hill & Ealing High School has received a 2026 Regional Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), marking its second major architectural honour in less than a year.
The recognition follows the school’s 2025 Education Award from New London Architecture (NLA), positioning the Junior School as one of the most widely praised new educational buildings in London.
Designed by architects Hawkins\Brown, the building was described by the RIBA London jury as “a carefully composed and deeply considered educational building” that supports learning “through its very fabric”. Jury chair Amir Sanei said the project demonstrated “contextual sensitivity, spatial generosity, and environmental intelligence”, raising the standard for contemporary school design.
The new Junior School was developed through engagement with the school community, with pupils and staff contributing to the design process. The result is a building that aims to enrich daily school life through flexible, light-filled spaces and a layout that encourages independence, collaboration and hands-on learning.
Its pitched rooflines and articulated forms were designed to sit comfortably within the surrounding Victorian streets of Ealing, while a distinctive palette of materials — including green glazed brick, hit-and-miss brickwork and a rooftop lantern — gives the building a strong visual identity.
Kate Bevan, Head of the Junior School, said the RIBA award reflected the ambition behind the project.
“We wanted to create a school environment that would genuinely enrich children’s daily experiences,” she said. “The building has transformed how our pupils learn and interact, with spaces that encourage collaboration, independence and hands-on discovery both inside and outdoors.”
The development includes 14 new Junior School classrooms, additional Sixth Form teaching spaces, a library, specialist rooms and a multi-purpose hall. Outdoor learning is a central feature, with a science garden, forest school area, Reception play space and additional playgrounds designed to support active, exploratory learning.
The interior of the junior school building. Picture: NHEHS
The building’s environmental performance was a key factor in both the RIBA and NLA awards, with the design incorporating sustainable materials, natural light and energy-efficient systems.
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