Doha, August 30 (QNA) - Qatar Academy Sidra, part of Qatar Foundation's Pre-University Education, has welcomed students to its new building as the academic year begins, providing an integrated learning environment designed to support learning, innovation, and student wellbeing.

  The new building can accommodate up to 1,800 students. It features 60 classrooms, a library, science laboratories, STEM and innovation spaces, art and design studios, music rooms, and an auditorium. It also includes a range of sports facilities, including a swimming pool, sports hall, and outdoor sports fields.

  Abeer Al Khalifa, President of QF's Pre-University Education, said: "The opening of QAS's new campus marks a significant milestone not only in the school's journey, but also in QF PUE's vision for the future of learning."

  "More than a new building, this campus represents our commitment to creating learning environments that inspire curiosity, nurture wellbeing, and equip students with the skills and mindsets needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world."

  Highlighting how the new campus has been designed around the needs of students and educators, Al Khalifa said: "Every aspect of the new campus has been thoughtfully designed to support innovative teaching and learning. Its modern, student-centered spaces provide greater opportunities for collaboration, creativity, exploration, and personalized learning, while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging."

  "The campus reflects our belief that the physical environment plays a vital role in enriching the educational experience and empowering students to reach their full potential."

  For students, the new campus provides greater opportunities to learn, explore, and engage both inside and beyond the classroom. Al Khalifa explained: "This new campus will transform the learning journey by providing access to dynamic spaces that encourage inquiry, critical thinking, creativity, and engagement. It creates new possibilities for academic excellence, personal growth, and holistic development, ensuring that every learner is supported to succeed and flourish."

  Reflecting on what the new campus represents for the wider PUE community, she concluded: "As we begin this exciting new chapter, we celebrate the dedication, perseverance, and shared vision that brought this project to life. We are proud of what this campus represents for the QAS community and for PUE as a whole."

  "It stands as a symbol of our ambition to continually reimagine education and create exceptional learning experiences that will benefit generations of students in Qatar and beyond."

  Sustainability and resource efficiency have been embedded into the design of the new building, in alignment with the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). The building incorporates solutions aimed at reducing energy and water consumption and enhancing operational efficiency, supporting the Academy's commitment to creating a more sustainable and environmentally responsible learning environment.

  Natural light also plays an important role in the building's design, with classrooms and facilities designed to maximize daylight and create a comfortable and healthy environment for students and teachers. This reflects a broader focus on how the physical learning environment can support student wellbeing, concentration, and engagement throughout the school day.

  Accessibility and ease of movement were also key considerations in the building's design, with facilities and pathways designed to accommodate the needs of the wider school community and visitors. The campus also provides parking facilities and direct tram access, enhancing connectivity and accessibility within Education City. (QNA)