A motivating place to learn

Located in the heart of Nuremberg, Maria Ward School offers spacious outdoor facilities with open learning areas, quiet nooks, and an environment that promotes creativity and personal responsibility. The architecture follows the innovative educational model “Die andere Lernwelt” (The Other Learning World) of the Archdiocese of Bamberg, which focuses on openness, cooperation, and the teaching of values.

Designed by the architectural firm H2M, the result is a well-thought-out school building that is both functional and atmospheric. The compact structure creates sheltered areas inside for learning, retreat, exercise, and socializing. The heart of the building is a light-flooded atrium with a sculptural open staircase – a lively center that connects the primary school, secondary school, and high school located there. Over 65 modern classrooms and specialist rooms, an all-day school, an auditorium, a music area, and an underground triple sports hall offer a wide range of spaces.

The signage system was also designed with the unique architecture in mind. Meng created part of the signage, opting for transparent door signs that were discreetly integrated into the glass architecture. The system was supplemented by ceform CW interchangeable modules for important information such as emergency plans.

Old and new
The neighboring convent, where the Maria Ward Sisters still live today, was renovated and connected to the new building via a glass corridor. Among other things, it houses the kitchen that supplies the cafeteria. The new building also sets standards in terms of sustainability: it is CO₂-neutral and uses recycled materials – for example, from the demolition of the old school building. Old masonry from the previous buildings was reused for the concrete facade. An intelligent lighting concept was used to design the transition between classrooms, movement zones, and learning areas in such a way as to promote concentration and well-being. In addition, a sophisticated ventilation concept ensures a pleasant indoor climate.

The new Maria Ward School is much more than a school building – it is a place that motivates learning, strengthens community, and accompanies young people on their journey.