New-build construction of an 18 classroom C of E primary school as part of a major housing development, for occupation at the start of the 2023 academic year
Design & build steel frame structure with brick and glazed wall sections, insulated sheet roof and landscaped grounds.
Delivery
Persimmon Homes engaged TCi to develop the 6 acre site and deliver an impressive facility comprising two wings and a central atrium with school hall and catering facilities.
Work began on the brownfield site, accessed within an ongoing housing development, in October 2022. Site setup and groundworks commenced, with the footprint of the building appearing quickly, before the framework started to arrive. Inclement weather over the winter period caused challenges, but the project was able to return to programme quickly.
Regular site visits from senior community figures, including the incoming headteacher and representatives of the academy trust were accommodated throughout the build, helping to maintain excellent client and end-user communication.
Completion
The single-storey steel-framed building to an open-plan design, features 18 classrooms and a spacious assembly hall, welcoming reception and central atrium with fully landscaped grounds. The full-height corridors make use of windows high in the asymetrical roof apex and glass partitions to share natural light throughout the communal areas and into the well-appointed classrooms.
Achieving BREEAM ‘very good’ was a site prerequisite achieved through innovative design and the incorporation of a large solar array.
The school has facilities to accommodate nursery and reception pupils through to year 2, with a large playing field and dedicated Forest School area. St John’s CE Academy opened in September 2023 and aims to become the heart of the new community at Wellington Gate.
A topping out ceremony took place with representatives from the community and school staff.
Monthly senior engagement tours were attended by the incoming headteacher and client team
Handover
Handover and Ofsted approval was achieved with completed commissioning, operation and maintenance documentation, warranties and contractual defect periods.
