The Project
Following the undertaking of an Options Appraisal and Feasibility Study, Make were appointed to progress the project to detailed design, tender and project delivery. The works consisted of remodelling and refurbishing the existing sixth-form block to create an enhanced learning environment suited to the needs of sixth-form users. The spaces included a breakout room, welfare facilities, study rooms as well as teaching areas. Works also addressed some safety and compliance issues as follows:
- The need for installation of a fire alarm system and intruder alarm.
- Installation of certified fire doors where required.
- A compliant, accessible W/C.
The Challenge
The project posed several challenges during project delivery due to working on a live school site and the requirement for the provision of temporary classrooms for their cohort of sixth-form students whilst the sixth-form block was being remodelled and refurbished.
The Solution
Due to costs, the temporary classroom facilities were not considered further and an additional package of works was instructed by the client during the contract. This alternative option was to refurbish existing classrooms within the school which were to be used to temporarily house sixth-form students. Works were prioritised to be completed during the summer holidays for this element ready for the school to occupy the newly refurbished classrooms in the new term.
Although it was challenging to design and deliver the additional works during the contract period, it was rewarding to see the school benefit from refurbished classrooms as opposed to the temporary classroom facilities which would have incurred expensive hire costs.
The Outcome
Make successfully designed, tendered and delivered the project within the allocated budget and ensured all works were completed before pupils returned to school in January 2024. Due to careful cost management, works were delivered for less than the original contract sum and the client was able to utilise the underspend for other projects within the Trust. The client was extremely pleased with the vastly improved Sixth Form block and continue to appoint Make on various services within the Trust’s estate.
