We introduced virtual site visits during the fit-out stages to suit social distancing and safety measures and held our site project meetings remotely . Despite the challenges , this had minimal impact on the scheme itself , which is a testament to the working relationships developed throughout the project and the professionalism of all involved .”
It was important to the school that the new facilities provided a reduction in its carbon footprint , while also improving budgets through energy efficiency , so that money saved on fuel bills can be reinvested back into the curriculum for the benefit of the students .
The new , sustainable facility has been rated as BREEAM ‘ very good ’, and incorporates eco-features including sustainable drainage systems ( SuDS ), bat and swift boxes , beehives and outdoor classrooms to further connect pupils to their natural surroundings .
Simon Hyde , who was Headmaster during the design and construction phase , said : “ This has been without a doubt the most ambitious project for the school in its 518- year history , and we could not be happier with the finished product .
“ A connection to nature has been very important to us at the school , and we are incredibly lucky to be set in our rural , woodland location . The new campus will allow us to expand what we offer , for example the new floodlit netball courts will allow us to host netball tournaments , something we simply could not do before . We also have Cheshire ’ s only indoor cricket centre .”
Dedicated art , music , science and computing rooms for both the infant and junior divisions have been built , as well as a dedicated hall , lecture theatre and library . In the senior division , teaching and learning areas have been organised by faculty , with the science department also benefitting from 15 hightech laboratories , prep rooms and office space .
Martin Horton , project manager at VINCI Construction UK , the main contractor , added : “ The new school site sits perfectly in the landscape , and along with its spacious and naturally-lit spaces is a very impressive facility . We were very pleased to work in close conjunction with Pick Everard to deliver the new school , while ensuring the safety of all those on site .”
Preliminary works started in August 2018 , with the aim of the school being ready for the start of the 2020 / 21 academic year . The school has now welcomed back its pupils in line with the latest government guidance regarding COVID-19 . The large indoor and outdoor areas including extremely spacious corridors , are helping the school to operate in a Covid-safe way .
The project has been funded by the school selling its previous two sites in Fence Avenue and Cumberland Street to housing developers , areas which will provide sustainable and affordable homes , along with retirement and assisted living options .
Pick Everard employs more than 500 staff across its 13 offices , providing a range of project , cost and design consultancy services .
For more information , please visit www . pickeverard . co . uk
www . refurbandrestore . co . uk - 53