King Edward VI School
Value: £3.9M
Type: Extension and New Build
Partner: G F Tomlinson
Delivered on behalf of Staffordshire County Council, under the Staffordshire Construction Framework, this 2-phase project comprised of the extension to an existing building and the construction of a new modular science building for the school.
Phase one comprised a new three-storey extension, which was constructed on the site of a former swimming pool that had been closed for over ten years. The facility now houses enhanced teaching and auxiliary spaces, as well as an administration area on the lower ground floor that features a new student services area.
Phase two involved the installation of a new standalone modern modular structure to provide enhanced science laboratory teaching facilities, which replaced existing accommodation and obsolete prefabricated buildings on site.
External works were also included as an add on to the original scheme which comprised new railings, fencing, outdoor steps and re-surfacing works.
Due to the scheme being completed on time and to budget, G F Tomlinson was awarded further refurbishment works at the school, which included window replacements in the main hall, as well as new windows, ceilings, floors and interactive whiteboards in a number of classrooms.
The works were undertaken whilst the school remained open and during the COVID-19 pandemic which meant a number of restrictions were in place at the time of construction.
All works were segregated to ensure students were kept safe at all times. We also employed a full-time banksman to manage the logistical requirements on site. Deliveries were also timed to avoid key school hours such as arrival, departure, and lunchtimes.
We were invited to tender for the above project as a mini competition through Staffordshire County Council Framework. The tender was conducted and administered by Entrust Support Services Ltd on the Councils behalf. The project had been developed to RIBA stage 3 and we were to engage our own consultants to complete and coordinate all outstanding design for Construction.
Project highlights
- £750k Client saving
- 54 apprentice weeks on site
- 259 miles made using low emission vehicles
- 1,500 students safeguarded
- 100% waste diverted from landfill
- MMC approach resulted in construction carbon reductions – 69% fewer vehicle movements, 25% less waste
- Reduced construction activities from 80-weeks to 50 weeks through collaboration
“We are absolutely delighted with the new and refurbished accommodation; the students and staff are already seeing the benefits of improved learning environments. It has been a complex project, but at every stage we have worked together to find the most effective way to secure the best outcome for the school.
It has been an absolute pleasure to work with G F Tomlinson; the attention to detail and the consideration for the needs of the school has helped secure best value and high quality.
The project team from Staffordshire County Council, Entrust and G F Tomlinson have brought long-held ambitions to life and we now have accommodation that matches the high standards of achievement at King Edward VI School.”
Jane Rutherford, Headteacher – King Edward VI School