Bluecoat Aspley Academy - Sixth Form Extension
Following a prolonged growth in student numbers and attainment at the Bluecoat Aspley Academy, J Tomlinson was appointed as the main contractor to increase the size of the school's sixth form facility.
- Client
Bluecoat Aspley Academy
- Value
£1.4m
- Commencement
November 2014
- Duration
37 weeks
- Completion
August 2015
- Contract
JCT Design and Build Contract 2011
- Architect
Baily Garner LLP
- Key Features
• Installation of bespoke acoustic fixtures and fittings
• Live Site - Term time working programme
• High level of involvement with the school during and after project completion with careers and employability support
Project Background
Bluecoat Academy is a secondary school based in the Aspley area of Nottingham. The school was founded in 1706 as the first charity school in Nottingham and - since 2004 - has had two campuses; one in Aspley and one in Wollaton.
Following a growth in student numbers and attainment at the Bluecoat Academy and 6th Form College in Nottingham, J Tomlinson was appointed as the main contractor to increase the size of the facility on offer at the sixth form college. The project would comprise the design and construction of a two-storey extension, which would be integrated into parts of the existing sixth form centre block.
The college is now home to over 500 6th form students, all of whom have access to increased space and facilities for learning and development as they study toward A-Levels and other associated qualifications.
J Tomlinson Solution
The project saw J Tomlinson extend the existing teaching block, which consists of a steel frame structure with brickwork and raised façades. Within the new lecture theatre, we installed bespoke roofing fixtures and fittings to assist acoustics. This enables the theatre to be multifunctional, to host lectures and assemblies, in addition to drama and band performances. Total project works also included refurbishment and re-modelling of areas in the adjoining building, as well as external landscaping.
We managed all works from conception through to completion. Close programme management ensured this project was delivered on time and budget.
The team was commended for its proactive approach to health and safety at this live school site. Upon gathering key information about the operation of the school, frequent communications and liaison with school representatives allowed for a reactive and adaptive working programme, to fit around ongoing school activities to minimise disruption and risk.
Completed in August 2015, the new facilities offer students and staff modern self-study areas, a lecture theatre, classrooms, canteen and dining area, and kitchen facilities.
Project Achievements
The works did not impede the daily running of the school during the successful integration of the old and new buildings. This was achieved within a live school environment and using a phased programme to suit the client’s needs.
Commendation received from the client - “Brian the Site Manager has been excellent throughout and we’re really pleased with how the build has gone and the building we now have.” - Richard Peel, Head of Sixth Form/Assistant Principal
Added Value
Alongside this project, J Tomlinson maintained a high level of engagement with both the Academy and other local Nottingham Academies and Schools. We were involved in the following events and activities:
• Our CEO delivered an inspirational talk to students
• We sponsored the Bluecoat Annual Sports Awards Evening in November 2014
• We held careers talks at the ‘Nottingham Academies Schools Work Matters’ event in September 2015
• We attended the Bluecoat Academy Careers Fair in November 2015
We have continued our relationship with Bluecoat Academy following project completion, recognising the need to support local schools in careers, and student engagement activities.