£1.6 million
36 weeks
Project Overview
This comprehensive refurbishment project involved both external and internal works, including significant roof replacement and structural upgrades, as well as enabling works to facilitate ongoing operations during the construction process.
Scope of Works
To improve the internal environment of the school and ensure the safety and comfort of the staff and students, a variety of works were carried out internally:
• Main Hall Ceiling Replacement: The lath and plaster ceilings in the Main Hall were replaced with modern, high-quality materials, improving both the aesthetics and acoustics of this key central space.
• Classroom Ceiling Upgrades: Plasterboard ceilings in classrooms were replaced to enhance both the visual appeal and functionality of these teaching areas.
• Suspended Ceiling Systems: The existing suspended lay-in grid ceilings in classrooms and the IT suite were replaced with a new, modern suspended ceiling system, incorporating new luminaires for improved lighting conditions throughout the school
The primary focus of the external works was the complete re-roofing of both pitched and flat roof areas. Key tasks included:
• Re-roofing of Pitched and Flat Roofs: The existing roof coverings were removed and replaced with a mix of new materials, including a portion of the original slates to retain the aesthetic appeal and character of the building.
• Leadwork Replacement: All leadwork was replaced, ensuring the roofs were fully waterproofed and in line with current standards.
• Rainwater Goods Replacement: Selected sections of the existing cast iron rainwater goods were replaced with polyester powder-coated aluminium, designed to match the original heritage profile while offering improved durability and performance.
• Stonework Re-pointing: Localised re-pointing of the stonework, including the chimney stack, parapet walls, and copings, was carried out using lime-based mortar, which is more sympathetic to the building’s original materials and enhances its longevity.
• Rooflights and Glazing Replacement: The project included replacing the steel-framed rooflights and high-level glazing, improving the building’s insulation and energy efficiency.
• Cupola Refurbishment: Existing timber cupolas were carefully refurbished, preserving the building’s architectural integrity.
Challenges & Our Approach
Enabling Works – Minimising Disruption to Learning
A key challenge of the project was maintaining uninterrupted learning for pupils while construction works were carried out. To address this, a series of enabling works were carefully planned and implemented to significantly minimise disruption to the school day.
Two temporary classrooms were created within the Main Hall using a metal stud partition system, allowing teaching to continue safely and effectively throughout the programme.
Following completion of the re-roofing and internal works, the temporary spaces were removed and the hall fully reinstated. The parquet flooring was sanded and sealed, restoring the area to its original condition and ensuring the space was returned to the school in excellent condition.
Social Value Delivered
- Employment, Skills and Training
- As part of our tender proposals, we put forward several commitments to employment, training and skills. These commitments were contractualised when we were successful, and we delivered the following outcomes, all monitored by our Social Value Coordinator, Alison Melton;
- Work Placements – We collaborated with Sheffield College to offer work placements for 2 students.
- Apprentices – We delivered 6 Apprentice weeks
- A School Presentation was delivered on the construction industry and safety aspects of building sites.
Outcome
The project was successfully delivered under the YORbuild3 framework, with works carefully planned to minimise disruption and allow the school to remain fully operational throughout. The completed re-roofing and external upgrades have improved the building’s durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency, while internal improvements have created brighter, safer, and more comfortable learning spaces. All temporary works were removed and affected areas fully reinstated to a high standard.
In addition to the physical improvements, the project delivered positive social value outcomes. Work placements, apprentice weeks, and a school presentation helped support skills development and raised awareness of careers in construction, leaving a lasting benefit for both the school and the wider community.
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