Montpelier High School required a complete transformation of its front-of-house environment, administration facilities and external circulation areas as part of wider organisational changes, including the relocation of services previously accommodated within adjacent retail units.
The project needed to be delivered across two fast-tracked phases while the school remained fully operational, creating significant safeguarding, access and logistical challenges.
The works involved the construction of both temporary and permanent reception facilities, extensive boundary and security improvements, a new kiosk and tensile canopy structure, major mechanical and electrical modifications, and the creation of new administrative, welfare and interview spaces.
Additional complexities included structural alterations to existing terrace areas, new foundations, structural steel installations, new openings within existing buildings, live service interfaces and the requirement to maintain fire escape provisions throughout.
21CBS worked closely with E-ACT, Batterham Smith Architects and specialist subcontractors to deliver the two-phase programme within a live school environment.
Careful management of access, logistics and programme sequencing allowed works to progress safely around school operations while maintaining key academic milestones and minimising disruption.
The works included:
Delivery of temporary reception, welfare and support facilities, together with enabling works, firewall separation and mechanical, electrical and data modifications to support the phased redevelopment.
Construction of a new main reception building incorporating structural steelwork, fire-rated glazing systems, administration offices, interview rooms and a dedicated sick bay.
Installation of new building services throughout, including heating, ventilation, lighting, power, data infrastructure, fire safety systems and accessibility improvements.
Construction of a new kiosk building on engineered foundations, featuring a timber and steel frame, timber cladding, EPDM roofing and integrated service facilities.
Installation of a 21.1m × 12.2m triple-cone tensile canopy incorporating stainless steel cable supports, PVDF-coated fabric and structural steel framework, together with associated waterproofing works.
Comprehensive external improvements including new boundary walls, fencing, railings, gates, terrace balustrades and enhanced circulation routes.
High-quality internal finishes throughout, including granite tiling, linoleum flooring, carpet tiles, acoustic ceilings and specialist glazed screen systems.
Final security, communication and operational enhancements, including a new intercom system and mechanical services modifications to improve long-term maintenance access.
The completed project has created a secure, modern and highly functional arrival experience for students, staff and visitors. The new reception facilities enhance safeguarding and visitor management, while the kiosk and tensile canopy provide a vibrant, weather-protected external hub for everyday school use.
New administration, welfare and interview facilities have improved operational functionality, while the upgraded boundary treatments, gates and balustrades have strengthened site security and safety. Delivered successfully within a live school environment, the project provided a future-proofed solution that fully complies with CDM requirements, Building Regulations and school safeguarding policies while delivering long-term value for the client.
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