In your article, “Light shed on importance of school building designs” (October 15), reviewing the Making Space 2010 architecture and design conference, there was a focus on the comments of Professor Will Alsop that architecture was poorly understood by civil servants and other decision-makers, resulting in unappealing school buildings.

While his case was strong, other speakers at the event did highlight the successes of the Scottish Government’s school buildings strategy. It is worth highlighting particular spaces which demonstrate Scotland’s innovation in design, most notably the winner of the Making Space 2010 Scottish award, Hyndland After School Club in Glasgow. It provides care for five to 12-year-olds, allowing their parents to work without facing issues of childcare.

The space was commended for its low-cost, imaginative and innovative use of old premises. This should remind cash-strapped councils that developing innovative spaces does not require large-scale spending.

The shortlist of entries can be viewed at www.childreninscotland.org.ukmakingspace

Ruth Gibb, communications manager, Children in Scotland.