Stz’uminous Secondary School

Stz’uminus First Nation sees education as central to their Nation’s success. The school is designed to inspire students to excel and support lifelong learning. Stz’uminus Secondary School is a two storey steel structure with administration, a library, four classrooms, home economics room, art classroom, science classroom, industrial arts, computer lab, multi-purpose area, gymnasium and a large covered play area. A lecture-hall was provided as an alternative to the traditional classroom environment to ease students transition to higher learning.

An expanse of linear wood panels enclose all public areas inside and outside the building including exterior soffits and interior central two-storey atrium block wrapped in vertical red cedar boards. The wood provides a warm and welcoming spirit to the school and forms a counter point to the modern steel structure. A playful colonnade provides shelter from the elements and creates a gentle transition to the building interior as well as covered space for play and socializing.

The school was designed and built to high sustainability standards, including geothermal heat recovery system, radiant hydronic floors, natural light and conducive window orientation, natural ventilation and generous overhangs protecting the library from overheating. The building has a green roof which improves stormwater management, conservation of energy and biodiversity.