0
Area
0
Value
0
Week Programme
Client
Cabot Learning Federation
Sector
Education
Area
4779 sq ft.
Location
Weston-Super-Mare
Value
£388,508
Start And Length
June – August 2022 | 10 weeks
Contract
JCT Intermediate Building Contract with Contractors Design Portion (IC 2016)

Challenge

Hans Price Academy required the complete strip-out, reconfiguration and refurbishment of its Science and Mathematics departments to create a modern STEM environment aligned with evolving curriculum requirements. 

The project included two science super labs, a preparation room, specialist teaching spaces and adjacent maths classrooms, all within a live secondary school environment.

The works had to be delivered within a fixed 10-week summer programme while maintaining strict safeguarding requirements, managing live services, controlling noise and deliveries, and coordinating multiple mechanical, electrical and specialist laboratory installations.

Additional project complexity arose through approved variations including structural penetrations, MVHR amendments, lighting revisions and BMS changes.

 

Approach

21CBS worked closely with Cabot Learning Federation and the wider project team to deliver the refurbishment within a tightly constrained programme.

Careful planning around safeguarding, access, deliveries and working hours enabled the works to proceed safely with minimal disruption to school operations. 

A phased delivery approach and close coordination between architectural, laboratory furniture, mechanical and electrical specialists ensured all project requirements, design changes and service integrations were successfully incorporated while maintaining programme deadlines.

The works included:

Complete strip-out and reconfiguration of existing science laboratories, preparation rooms and mathematics teaching spaces, including the removal of laboratory furniture, ceilings, partitions, floor finishes and redundant fixtures.

Construction of new fire-rated acoustic partitions, specialist low-level walls and high-performance glazed screens to improve acoustic performance, visibility and teaching space functionality.

Installation and refurbishment of fire-rated and acoustic doorsets, together with upgraded ironmongery, signage and compliance measures.

Mechanical and electrical upgrades including new MVHR ventilation systems, LED lighting, electrical distribution improvements, laboratory isolation controls, BMS integration and associated builders' works.

Installation of specialist science laboratory furniture, incorporating new benching layouts, demonstration stations, integrated gas, water, power and data services, storage solutions and preparation room facilities.

High-quality internal finishes throughout, including hygienic ceilings, specialist laboratory vinyl flooring, carpet tile systems, full redecoration and associated finishing works.

 

Sustainability

The project incorporated several measures to improve long-term sustainability and operational efficiency. Existing ceiling grids and tiles were retained and reused where suitable, reducing material waste.

New LED lighting systems and upgraded BMS controls improve energy efficiency and reduce ongoing operational costs, while MVHR ventilation systems provide improved indoor air quality and energy-conscious environmental control.

Durable laboratory finishes, hygienic ceiling systems and high-performance flooring products were selected to maximise lifespan and minimise future maintenance requirements.

Results

The completed project delivered a modern, future-ready STEM teaching environment that supports both current curriculum requirements and future educational needs. The reconfigured science laboratories provide improved safety systems, specialist ventilation, durable laboratory finishes and fully integrated services, while the upgraded maths teaching spaces benefit from improved acoustic performance, refreshed interiors and more effective learning environments.

The project achieved full compliance with the architectural specification, fire safety requirements and Building Regulations while improving environmental comfort through new LED lighting, MVHR ventilation and BMS-controlled building services. Delivered within a constrained summer programme and live-school environment, the refurbishment provides high-quality, coordinated teaching facilities that enhance both staff and student experience.

Special design features

A key feature of the project was the creation of a purpose-designed STEM environment that brings together practical science teaching and modern classroom learning. Science laboratories were reconfigured around contemporary teaching methods, with teacher demonstration benches, improved visibility, enhanced ventilation and integrated safety systems that support both effective teaching and student engagement.

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