Many schools are finding it a challenge to meet the growing demand for classroom spaces, as well as improving or replacing dilapidated buildings that undermine teaching and learning.

With tight budgets, limited space and the need to avoid intrusive site works while pupils struggle to study, it’s not surprising they are looking for an alternative to traditional construction.

The innovative technologies now used to create modular buildings are often the answer, providing impressive fit-for-purpose space for optimum learning along with savings in cost, energy and CO2 emissions.   

They are also quick to install, and Surveyors to Education (S2e) can support you in choosing the right design then project manage construction and assembly. We will partner with a manufacturer to deliver the best modular building for your needs, offering the cheapest, most environmentally friendly options on the market. We can also help you obtain funding.

What are modular buildings?

Modular buildings are temporary or permanent structures constructed using pre-fabricated units called modules. They can be connected end to end, side by side or in several storeys to make buildings of any scale or layout. They are manufactured off site and can be ready within weeks.

Forget the damp, draughty temporary portacabins from decades gone by. Durable, high-quality modern modular buildings can last for up to 60 years. And if you only need them as an interim measure, they are speedy to remove.

With project management from S2e, modular buildings for schools offer outstanding benefits:

Flexible design, finish and use

Modular buildings for schools can be configured as classrooms, theatre space, dining halls, sports facilities, for Specialist Education Needs, as multi-functional areas or more. They can incorporate changing rooms, kitchens, storage cupboards and toilet facilities. They come in a variety of stylish designs whether you want a contemporary, fun or eco-friendly look. They can also be customised in size, shape and configuration to suit your school’s evolving needs to accommodate lower- or higher-birth-rate years, new music provision, blended learning and more.

Fast construction

A standard classroom block could be assembled on your site in just a few days. A bigger project, such as a 630m2 installation for 100 children, including classrooms and a hall, might take five weeks to manufacture and eight weeks to put in place.

Manufacturers can deliver projects up to 70% faster than using traditional construction techniques because foundations and groundworks are completed while the modules are manufactured off site, saving precious time. They are usually fully fitted with all electrics, plumbing, heating and internal finishes before they reach your school.

Cost effective

With a modular building you can save money not just in construction costs, but also because running costs, maintenance and energy bills are also lower. Educational surveyors can advise on the best option for your school but advantages include:

• 10% lower construction costs

• an average 76% less a year to maintain thanks to ultra-low lifecycle costs: state-of-the-art energy-efficient heating and cooling can cost just £5/m2 a year to run[1]

• smart energy-saving features such as time clocks, thermostatic controls and non-concussive taps

Good for the planet

Modular buildings for schools mean a lower carbon footprint, fewer vehicles and less waste.

Factory-controlled manufacturing processes minimise the amount of energy necessary to create a building, while construction traffic from trucks as well as labourers’ and site managers’ cars is drastically reduced. Off-site construction also generates up to 90% less waste than traditional on-site building methods.[2]

Modular buildings include the latest smart energy-management technologies, such as:

• Premium insulation for walls, floors and ceilings to minimise heat loss.

• Doubled glazing with energy B-rated windows.

• Thermostatic controls for efficient temperature regulation.

• Motion-sensitive lighting so you are not wasting money when everyone has gone home.

• Integrated solar PV roofs that provide clean energy and can also generate income for your school.

In all, modular buildings for schools offer the potential for an ideal working and studying environment.

As well as specialist project management, S2e can help you source funding for your project through a range of ESFA compliant solutions. Contact us today at 01530 877969 or email enquire@s2e.org.uk.

[1] Source: Net Zero Buildings

[2] Source: WRAP