Victoria School - Saigon South wins International Architecture Award 2024.

The unique architectural design of Victoria School - Saigon South, featuring abundant greenery and creating a refreshing and sustainable learning environment, has earned the school the International Architecture Award.

The only green school in Vietnam to win the honour

Giải thưởng Kiến trúc Quốc tế (The International Architecture Awards - IAA) do Bảo tàng Kiến trúc và thiết kế Chicago (Mỹ) phối hợp với Trung tâm kiến trúc, nghệ thuật và Đô thị châu Âu tổ chức - là giải thưởng quốc tế về kiến trúc lâu đời và uy tín nhất.  Giải thưởng IAA được tổ chức định kỳ hàng năm nhằm tôn vinh các cá nhân, tổ chức có những thiết kế sáng tạo và độc đáo.

The International Architecture Award (IAA), one of the world's oldest and most prestigious architecture awards, is an annual award recognising innovative and unique design. The IAA is organised by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design in collaboration with The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.

Victoria School - Saigon South's green-covered building

This year's International Architecture Awards (IAA) saw 850 entries from around the globe. Outperforming numerous projects, Victoria School - Saigon South was honoured with the title "Green Curtain School." Victoria School - Saigon South is one of only 17 projects worldwide, and one of just two in Vietnam, to be recognised in the school category. Designed by architect Võ Trọng Nghĩa, the school's primary goal is to create a green and sustainable learning environment.

Mr Christopher Bradley, Headmaster of Victoria School - Nam Sài Gòn, stated: “We are incredibly proud that the school's design has received this award. It is a prestigious accolade that affirms the quality of the learning environment at Victoria School - Nam Sài Gòn. Beyond mere aesthetics, the vibrant green spaces, optimised classrooms, and play areas will inspire both students and teachers, contributing to effective learning and working.”

Refreshing green spaces inspire and uplift students

Educating Students on Green Living

In the context of rapid urbanisation, high urban density, and shrinking green spaces, creating a green school within Ho Chi Minh City is essential. Victoria School - Nam Sài Gòn, a UNESCO Happy School model, prioritises the development of green spaces for its students, providing them with a joyful learning experience.

With a total area of 15,000 square metres, the school boasts extensive greenery, both inside and out. This includes the school grounds, playgrounds, bird-of-paradise gardens, rooftop gardens, an outdoor café, and even within classrooms and offices. The foliage enveloping the buildings acts as a "green curtain," filtering the air and creating an airy and natural learning and working environment.

Alongside the green spaces, the school cultivates a love for nature,

instilling green awareness in students

Đặng Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa, a Year 10 student, shared: “I was overwhelmed the first time I came to school by the greenery everywhere; it's so visually appealing. Whether I'm in the classroom, the library, the corridors, or the play areas, I always feel cool and comfortable. This helps me relax and de-stress during intense study periods.”

Alongside providing these green spaces, the school aims to educate students about sustainable living and "green consciousness" in their interaction with nature. According to the IAA: "Trees planted around the school reduce temperatures and save energy, while a rainwater harvesting system is used for irrigation and water reuse. Furthermore, the school focuses on holistic education, nurturing students' love for nature and fostering a deeper connection with the urban environment, especially crucial in a context where Vietnam faces growing concerns around depression and anxiety."

Không gian hồ bơi xanh mát, được bố trí xen kẽ giữa các tòa nhà.

Victoria School's design emphasises the integration of sports and agricultural spaces within its green architecture. The rooftop serves as a biological garden where students can cultivate and care for various vegetables, fostering a love for nature. Sports facilities, such as golf and table tennis, are interspersed throughout the campus to minimise their footprint. The swimming pool is also thoughtfully designed to cater to the students' needs.

Victoria School stands as a pioneering example of green and sustainable education in an urban setting. By efficiently utilising space and optimising natural resources, the school aims to nurture a love for nature and raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection among its students, contributing to a sustainable future for the country.