New timber frame classroom building solves access challenge

Timeline

• Feasibility – November 2020

• Planning application – December 2020

• Out to tender – March 2021

• Return – March 2021

• Start on site – 24 May 2021 

• Completion – 6 September 2021

The Issue – Access challenges

Everton Heath is a small, friendly village school set in rural Bedfordshire, part of The Cam Academy Trust. It has been judged Outstanding by Ofsted and has a thriving atmosphere with the highest educational standards at the heart of our philosophy. 

Everton Heath is a much-extended Victorian primary school with small classrooms, lots of steps between them and spaces that did not comply with modern standards. Access was limited, running alongside the school and across a playground, and this made disruption a key challenge. Other problems included drainage and poor ground conditions, and working next to areas where pupils were playing. 

The Solution – Specialist knowledge

S2e did everything from start to finish: feasibility, architecture, design, tender/procurement, cost control, appointing a contractor, project management, health and safety, mechanical and electrical engineering and structural design.

Sustainability measures included use of timber, fossil-fuel-free heating and enhanced thermal performance.

The extra value-add came in their expertise around build methodology and style that avoided cumbersome traditional construction. They opted for timber frame because works could be completed off site and brought to school in a kit for quick assembly, using a small crane and limiting disruption.

The Outcome - Best Learning Environment

S2e’s specialist knowledge of off-site build methods and speed to make use of the summer holiday meant all was ready on time for the start of the new school year.  

Delighted key stage 2 age pupils, in years 5 and 6 have two bright new classrooms and toilets to DfE standards, with level access at the sides, teaching sinks and full air conditioning for optimum teaching and learning.

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