The project involved delivering a modern, purpose built Sixth Form Centre for St Benet Biscop Catholic Academy, designed to enhance post 16 education through high quality, flexible learning environments. The two-storey steel framed extension incorporated general teaching rooms, pastoral support spaces, integrated IT facilities, an accessible lift, welfare and WC provisions, social areas, outdoor recreation space, and additional parking. Energy efficient design and adaptability to future educational needs were key priorities, ensuring long-term value for the school.
The project adopted the JCT Intermediate Contract with Contractor’s Design, which suited the scheme’s complexity and transferred key design responsibilities to our team. We led the design for specialist elements such as curtain walling, rainscreen cladding, fire escape structures, plantroom integration, and BWIC for M&E and lift installations. This required precise technical coordination to meet all regulatory, safety, and quality standards expected for a modern educational facility. Our team carried out site visits to assess access limitations, existing infrastructure, and operational considerations within the live school environment. Close collaboration with specialist subcontractors formed a critical element of preconstruction planning. GastroNorth advised on requirements for the kitchen and servery areas. Engaging these specialists early allowed technical constraints to be resolved before construction mobilisation.
We adopted a carefully controlled delivery strategy to work safely within a live school environment. This included strict segregation of construction areas, full safeguarding compliance with DBS clearance, and daily monitoring through inductions and site logs. Deliveries were avoided during peak school hours, and disruptive works were scheduled for school holidays wherever possible.
Daily liaison with school staff, communicating upcoming works, noise sensitive activities, and any temporary operational impacts. Construction was planned around school events, exams, and drop off/pick up times ensuring minimal disruption. Vehicle movements, deliveries, and emergency procedures were managed in line with the Construction Phase Plan and agreed programme.