This multi-phase project upgraded teaching and communal facilities at King Edward VI Handsworth School for Girls in Birmingham to support the expansion of pupil numbers, improve outdated areas of the school and improve the teaching and learning experience.
The works delivered enhanced gym equipment and changing rooms, an entirely new kitchen and dining area, new teaching spaces and the refurbishment of two classrooms.
The client required the project to be completed by a specific date, on budget and with as little noise and disruption as possible to the live teaching environment. Construction was split into three different phases to achieve various elements of the development to these specific requirements.
Phase One
This initial phase of works comprised the partial demolition of the existing gymnasium block and the construction of new facilities including new glazed curtain walling in the existing gym across both storeys. A new-build extension provided a brand-new 415 sq. ft. dining room and kitchen with new mechanical and electrical works, changing rooms, plant and storage space at ground floor, and a multi-gym on the first floor. External refurbishment of entrance road and car
parking areas.
Phase Two
During the second phase we repurposed the ground floor of the existing dining block as Design & Technology spaces and other ancillary areas. Reroofing of areas of flat roof and some limited localised envelope/external works were also completed, and work was carried out to enhance and repair the existing floors and the roof.
Phase Three
The final phase comprised the internal strip and refinishing of two large existing classroom spaces, including new mechanical and electrical services. Throughout all phases of work, Seddon maintained robust communication with the client and varied stakeholders to build strong, trusting and honest relationships, allowing challenges to be discussed and resolved. Elements of the works were undertaken at nights and weekends in order to minimise the appearance and impact of our works, for example noisy works were scheduled around exam times and we avoided M&E shutdowns during teaching hours. Restricted delivery times had to be maintained as the
