J/Aug 2024 • £8 also in this issue: ebf - The Belfry, Nov 12-13 Meet with the education world’s built environment specialists Flooring The crucial role of floors in achieving Passivhaus Plus accreditation M&E Efficient renewable heating delivered by a ground source heat pump also in this issue - hee magazine: Sound sense Acoustic excellence at new student accommodation in Cambridge Lights, action Leading-edge lighting brands specified by the University of Leeds Estates team Green water Advanced water management technologies are revolutionising sustainability Head of the river Headington School in Oxfordshire has new facilities on the Thames to boost its rowing prowess
Specialising in modular construction for 90 years CONTACT US TODAY 0800 18 18 22 | www.wernick.co.uk [email protected] Find out more Scan the QR code 50+YEARS DESIGN LIFE SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION FULL PROJECT MANAGEMENT MINIMUM ON-SITE TIME FLEXIBLE RELOCATABLE WERNICK MODULAR BUILDINGS DELIVER...
educationdab.co.uk 3 Uncertainty continues for private school building programmes ONE of the reasons we’ve been following Labour’s plans to introduce 20% vat on school fees so closely is the knock-on impact it may have on capital spending plans in both private and state sector schools. If there’s an exodus of pupils from the private sector – and some estimates have put the departure figure at up to 25% – then inevitably it follows that private school building projects will suffer as fee income drops. A very buoyant sector for architects, contractors and suppliers for decades may suddenly become much less profitable. Conversely, the state sector building programme may benefit from the vat tax windfall. Prime Minister Starmer has declared in the past that he wants to use some of the £1.2 to £1.5 billion raised by the measure to fund 3,000 new nurseries. Existing capital building programmes – which have been affected by substantial cost pressures caused by the past few years’ inflation – may also become easier to progress. So for built environment specialists in the private school sector, the question is how much budget their bursar contacts will have at their disposal for capital investment. There are some grounds for limited optimism. One is that the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) predicts that removing tax exemptions from independent schools, of which VAT forms a significant proportion, would result in an effective VAT rate of 15%, not 20%, “after allowing for input deductions, likely VAT on boarding fees and exemptions for specialist provision”. The accountants RSM have even suggested that there may be scope for large refunds for private schools that have undertaken significant capital expenditure in the past ten years. Taken together, the difference between a potential 20% fee rise and an actual 15% increase, or even less, may be enough to persuade a number of hesitating parents to keep paying, and provide enough income for private schools to keep commissioning ambitious building projects. More clarity on this and when the vat will start being imposed should be provided by the Autumn Budget Labour is currently working on delivering around September this year. Headington School gets new boathouse The joinery specialist Stepnell has completed the build of Maddy Moorings boathouse for Headington School in Oxfordshire. The new facilities will enhance the independent girl's day and boarding school's ability to develop rowing talent - home to one of the UK’s top school boat clubs. Story page p18 Editor Andrew Pring Sales director Julian Walter Production Nicola Cann Design Sandra Cid Managing director Toby Filby The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. Publishers Stable Publishing Limited, SBC House, Restmor Way, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. [email protected] Andrew Pring Editor [email protected]
Say goodbye to leaky loos in public & commercial WCs with DELABIE’scistern-less flush Proven water savings: anti-leak system that saves up to 90% water Efficiency: powerful flush is always instantly available Hygiene: the lack of stagnant water prevents bacterial proliferation Easy to install: pre-assembled self-supporting frame system with waterproof housing, adapts to all types of walls (flush system also available without frame) Comfort: Soft-touch operation delabie.co.uk DELABIE’s TEMPOFLUX 3 cistern-less WC flush frame system View our Cistern-less Flush Webinar WARRANTY YEAR REPAIRABILITY YEARS
educationdab.co.uk 5 educationdab.co.uk contents J/Aug 2024 7The Labour Party’s commitment to end public schools’ charitable status and impose 20% vat on school fees was confirmed in the King’s Speech on 17 July – but no details of how the scheme would operate or when it would start were announced. 8 Analysis Legionella has been found in several schools over the years but how big is the risk to the UK’s schoolchildren generally? 10 Design Solutions The Corby-based construction company 7formation teamed up with Mace Group to deliver a transformative refurbishment project for the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, across all three of its campuses. 15 Event Preveiw - ebf Stable Events’ education building forum is approaching fast – so do put November 12 and 13 in your diary and get in touch as soon as possible to book your place at this must-attend gathering. 16 Flooring Two Rivers Primary School in Keynsham, Somerset, is only the second school in the country to achieve Passivhaus Plus accreditation – its flooring played a big part in achieving this. 20 M&E Marshland Primary Academy to benefit from low-cost, highly efficient renewable heating following a Ground Source Heat Pump installation.
Kier completes construction of net zero carbon Deyes High School KIER has completed the construction of a new net zero carbon in operation high school building in Merseyside. Deyes High School in Maghull was selected as one of the first fifty schools in the UK to receive investment from the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme. Kier recently handed over the completed 10,000 sqm school to Lydiate Learning Trust and Deyes High School. The modern building spans three floors and boasts a host of state-of-the-art facilities, including high-tech classrooms, specialist science laboratories, a learning resource centre, an art studio and a multi-use games area. The new building is net zero carbon in operation, with photovoltaic panels for solar power, hybrid natural vent units and three air source heat pumps. The school grounds will include large playing fields and sports pitches, a wildlife garden, a nature trail, and a habitat area to support learning and promote wellbeing for its 1,400 students. Construction of the new school commenced in August 2022 and has been completed on time and within budget. The next phase of the project involves the demolition of the old school buildings, scheduled to begin later this month. Victoria Beaney, Head of School, Deyes High School, commented: “Our state-of-the-art new school looks amazing and will allow us to combine our tradition of academic excellence and teaching innovation to engage, empower and enable our students. The new building is a fantastic flagship school for our community.” All work, including the construction of new sports facilities, is expected to be completed by spring 2025. 6 educationdab.co.uk news ACEREMONY was recently held at Bramley Vale Primary School, Derbyshire to officially mark the start of main works following the demolition of the old school building. Originally built in the 1930s, parts of Bramley Vale Primary School had come to the end of their life and required replacement, with ongoing repairs no longer providing a cost-effective solution compared to the cost of a complete rebuild. In the largest project of its kind it has been involved in, Derbyshire County Council appointed Morgan Sindall Construction via the SCAPE Construction framework, a direct award framework designed to drive collaboration, efficiency, time and cost savings on construction projects. It also appointed design and build consultancy, Concertus, to project manage the works. Once complete, the new school will accommodate up to 175 pupils aged up to 11 with the addition of five fullsize classrooms. With sustainability in mind, the school will be fitted with ecofriendly heating, lighting and ventilation, with a heat recovery system for optimised efficiency. Other amenities include a multi-use general teaching room, a new library, staff and office space, a catering kitchen facility and new, wall-mounted PE equipment. Additionally, Morgan Sindall will undertake extensive landscaping works on school grounds for wider use, including for delivering Forest School lessons. The school field will also be reinstated to Sports England standards. In keeping with Morgan Sindall’s Intelligent Solutions approach, a Temporary Learning Village was installed on the lower school field site to limit disruption and ensure the school remained fully operational while the demolition and main works took place. Councillor Alex Dale said: “This is one of the biggest primary school building projects we have ever been involved in and we’re very pleased to be working in partnership on this exciting multimillion-pound project making the best use of our resources to provide a highquality modern school for local children and for use by the wider community.” Main works commence on £8.5m Derbyshire primary school rebuild
THE Labour Party’s commitment to end public schools’ charitable status and impose 20% vat on school fees was confirmed in the King’s Speech on 17 July – but no details of how the scheme would operate or when it would start were announced. At the end of June, new Chancellor Rachel Reeves (then,still Shadow Chancellor) had hinted the vat imposition would be delayed until at least January 2025. Commentators have suggested it is now more likely to come at the start of the 2025-26 school year. At present, independent schools do not have to charge VAT on their fees because there is an exemption for the supply of education. This also means that independent schools cannot recover VAT in most circumstances. The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) predicts that removing tax exemptions from independent schools, of which VAT forms a significant proportion, would result in an effective VAT rate of 15% “after allowing for input deductions, likely VAT on boarding fees and exemptions for specialist provision”. Independent special schools represent a third of special schools and educate 5% of pupils with EHC plans. In 2022, local authorities placed over 20,000 children and young people in independent special schools. Most of the funding for these schools comes from the state. Speaking to LBC radio on 18 June 2024, Keir Starmer stated that there would be an exemption from the scheme for affected pupils. This would apply to those children with SEND and an EHC plan that made specific provisions regarding private schools. educationdab.co.uk 7 news THE newest SEND school in Ipswich – the £7m Woodbridge Road Academy – is tailored for 60 children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities and has been constructed under the Department for Education’s (DfE) MMC1 framework. The school features 12 classroom suites and several learning resource areas, which will allow secondary-age pupils to be taught vital life skills. In addition, Woodbridge Road Academy boasts a well-equipped library, sensory rooms, main hall, dining area, and accessible bathrooms. Outside, a multiuse games area (MUGA) has been constructed for recreational activities – including use by the wider community. Beyond serving the student population, the layout of the school allows specific areas to be accessed by the community outside core school hours. This includes the main hall, accessible bathrooms, hygiene rooms and the outdoor MUGA, meaning that the wider community also benefits from the new facility. The design also incorporates a ‘community lock’ feature, with Salto door lock systems on certain doors meaning that access to particular areas can be controlled by the school, providing additional levels of flexibility and security. Architecture and interior design teams from multi-disciplinary construction consultancy Pick Everard have worked closely with design and build contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, playing a pivotal role in delivering a carefully considered design fit for both pupil and community use. Paul Knifton, director at Pick Everard, said: “As with any school project with a variety of stakeholders, collaboration was at the heart of this project's success. We are pleased to have worked with Bowmer + Kirkland and Woodbridge Road Academy to create a new, purpose-built building that will transform the SEND provision in Suffolk.” Labour pushes ahead with VAT on private schools The Government has appointed Bridget Phillipson as the new Secretary of State for Education. She has also been appointed as Minister for Women and Equalities. Both are roles she had shadowed while in Opposition. Also appointed to the DfE Education team are: Annelise Dodds; Catherine McKinnell; Jacqui Smith; Janet Danby; and Stephen Morgan. New state-of-the-art £7m SEND school for Ipswich
Legionella – what is the risk to schoolchildren? There’ve been numerous news headlines relating to Legionella in our schools over the past few years – for example: ‘Nuneaton school building shut as legionella bacteria found’ and ‘Legionella discovered in water system at Milton Keynes school’. But what is the level of risk? Jonathan Twaites and Daniel Pitcher of Water Hygiene Centre explain WHY is there a Legionella risk in schools? A lot of the news headlines come during and just after school holidays when usage of the water systems has been reduced compared to what they would be during term time, potentially leading to stagnation especially if they are not managed effectively. If infrequently used outlets are not included in your Legionella flushing regime at least weekly, in line with the guidance in HSG274, then there is the potential for water to stagnate and provide ideal conditions for bacterial growth. If systems are not regularly flushed, it is not overly surprising that when sampled Legionella bacteria are detected. Thankfully, the risk to our children is actually very low. There are very few cases of school-age children being diagnosed with Legionnaires’ Disease. The figures from the 2021 report from the ECDC show only one child (aged 5-14) diagnosed in the year 2021 (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control – Legionnaires’ Disease Annual Epidemiological Report for 2021). Generally, children of school age are not considered in a high-risk category for contracting Legionnaires’ Disease. Yet we do have a general duty of care to protect people from harm, and as Legionnaires’ disease is very much considered a preventable illness. So schools do need to have in place reasonable steps to control the risk. The threat from Legionnaires’ Disease is considered ‘preventable’ and when contracted from an estate, invariably there will be legal ramifications… Good water safety management within school properties can be distilled into the following areas: 1 – Determining management arrangements and responsibility; 2 – Establishing the level of Legionella risk and devising an action plan proportionate to risk; 3 – Evidencing how Legionella risk has been suitably controlled, managed and reviewed. Legionella Guidance ACoP L8 and HSG 274 Part 2 provide the most current guidance and practical advice on managing the Legionella risk– ultimately to help ensure compliance with various health and safety regulations i.e. COSHH and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (MHSWR). It’s important to identify and establish a hierarchy of authority for water safety management ensuring that those responsible are demonstrably competent to undertake their role. Doing so will help the school to suitably delineate between management and operational water safety responsibilities. Once the management structure has been agreed upon and formalised within a policy document, water safety management considerations now become more ‘operational’. For example, a good starting point for a school, as for any organisation, would be to commission a site-specific Legionella risk assessment with accompanying schematics. The risk assessment should include a survey that includes all the systems that may contribute to or cause a risk of waterborne infection The HSE’s HSG274 Technical Guidance, Part 2, Table 2.1 provides practical guidance on the minimum requirements for the management of water risk systems. Therefore, whilst it’s not mandatory to follow the guidance, bear in mind that should the guidance not be followed then an organisation will need to demonstrate that they have achieved either an equivalent or better standard. Finally, comprehensive and complete water safety records must be kept and be easily accessible, i.e in a log book system. A failure to provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the risk of Legionella is being managed and that systems are in control could be interpreted as a failure to ensure that the water is safe. 8 educationdab.co.uk analysis
Discover the education range. Find out more about our education ranges. 01474 353333 www.venesta.co.uk [email protected] We’re proud to raise the standard of education washrooms on your behalf. From nurseries and primary schools to colleges and universities, we’re committed to raising the standard of washrooms for children and young adults. With safety, privacy, performance, hygiene and value for money all carefully considered within our product offering, you can seamlessly specify complete commercial washroom packages with a 10-year product guarantee. We know education washrooms. Scan the codes to learn more. C D M Q A Book prize draw is back for 2024.
The Corby-based construction company 7formation teamed up with Mace Group to deliver a transformative refurbishment project for the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, across all three of their campuses SINCE the merger of Selby College and Wakefield College and the formation of Castleford College in March 2022, the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group have had their sights set on creating a skills-focused organisation, which aims to address skills priorities at a local, regional and national level. The group is a leader in Yorkshire for post-16 education, taking on over 9,000 students each year. A key to the success of the group has been their plan to develop their existing sites with tailored education offerings to support each colleges ‘Local Priority’ areas, whilst also keeping a keen eye on the wider priorities at a regional level. The group has over a decade’s experience working with its partner schools to provide part-time and fulltime programmes for 14–16-year-olds. Its School Partnerships programme aims to raise learners’ awareness of Further and Higher Education, while encouraging continued participation. Wakefield College is made up of six buildings which allow students from 16 up to 60 to undertake courses from preentry level right up to degree level. The Wakefield College campus has undergone significant renovations as part of 7formation’s project. The Radcliffe Building witnessed a major transformation with enhancements to its animal care unit. Notably, improvements in fire safety were prioritised, with the introduction of a new external fire staircase facilitating quicker evacuation in case of emergencies. Furthermore, the installation of a comprehensive ventilation system throughout the third floor ensures a conducive learning environment for students and staff alike. The reimagined layout of biology rooms, coupled with ventilation upgrades, underscores the institution's dedication to fostering optimal learning conditions. Meanwhile, the Seacole Building saw a series of refurbishment works. The Seacole Building represents the Wakefield Campus’ dedicated higher education building, which is home to the University Centre at Wakefield College. The first leg of the project saw works within the digital media classroom. Structural alterations were made to accommodate state-of-the-art equipment, including a green screen area and advanced editing technology. The revitalised space not only enhances the learning experience but also inspires creativity and innovation among students pursuing media-related disciplines. Castleford College is home to the Group’s ‘skills based’ courses, in areas such as construction, automation and Engineering. Within Castleford College, 7formation introduced a new era of functionality and accessibility within the college, creating new office space with accompanying fitout works to house teachers and administrative staff alike. Additionally, it implemented a new student central area within the heart of the building, giving students a safe space to speak with their teachers, and providing a communal space which has helped to foster a sense of community within the school. One of the most notable achievements in 7formation’s project is the construction of a new build corridor at Castleford College. This corridor not only divides the previous large open space but also facilitates the introduction of new Transformative tripleproject for Yorkshire colleges group 10 educationdab.co.uk design solutions study areas, addressing congestion issues and optimising space utilisation. By reimagining the layout of its facilities, Castleford College demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of its student body and staff. At Selby College, 7formation undertook significant improvements to the Yorkshire and Humber Institute of Technology which is housed on the Selby campus. The Institute of Technology was specially designed to increase higher level tech skills through A levels, T levels, Higher Education, Vocational courses and Apprenticeships. The introduction of a new decarbonisation laboratory underscores the institution's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This stateof-the-art facility provides students with hands-on experience in tackling pressing environmental challenges, preparing them for careers in industries at the forefront of sustainable innovation. Furthermore, Selby College has expanded its teaching capacity with the creation of two new teaching rooms, specifically designed to support the
educationdab.co.uk 11 design solutions introduction of T levels. These rooms provide students with access to cuttingedge resources and instructional support tailored to the demands of emerging vocational pathways. Additionally, the establishment of a new decarbonisation workshop equipped with the latest technology reinforces Selby College's position as a leader in vocational education and skills training. Following on from this project, 7formation have been accepted on to the Everything FM framework. Everything FM empowers the public sector with access to local, regional and national network of specialist suppliers. The framework provides a fast, fully compliant and flexible way to procure suppliers to the public sector. Additionally, Everything FM allows for direct award procurement for both new and existing Public Sector clients, from Facilities Management right through to Construction & Refurbishment. www.7formation.co.uk www.macegroup.com
12 educationdab.co.uk feature Modular design triumphs at Kempshott Junior School KEMPSHOTT Junior School is a large Hampshire school near to Basingstoke town centre, that shares its site with Kempshott Infant School. The school has 12 classrooms, a children’s kitchen, a library, a hygiene room for disabled children, an outdoor classroom and a large hall The school wanted to create a new area for a library and a quiet space for students. Previously, a classroom was being used for this purpose and they wanted to reclaim the classroom and create a quiet room for those with needs. The new design area had to include a library and a large staff area for learning activities. An alternative option considered was priced at £250,000, but the modular bespoke design Vivid Green offers was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and more appealing design. Three different designs were proposed before the school decided to proceed. The total internal floor area is 82sqm, which comprised: main library, 60sqm; and the main staff room, 22sqm. The project cost £186,000 and took four weeks, starting in March this year. The school is built on a slope in the playground area, with steps up to the build. The entire structure is constructed using SIPS, which complies with and exceeds minimum building regulations. External cladding is made of sustainably sourced red cedar, which is environmentally friendly. Composite decking is used for the walkway. The building uses galvanised steel ground screws instead of a concrete slab, significantly reducing the environmental impact. The project has significantly improved the learning spaces and enhanced the school's aesthetic appeal. It has also proven to be cost-effective, as the benefits far outweigh the investment. The remodelled library and new quiet areas are inviting spaces that everyone enjoys. There were no outstanding challenges to overcome during the project Jo Johnson, Admin & Finance Officer at Kempshott Junior School, said: “Vivid Green were very easy to deal with, and spent considerable time discussing materials and sizes with us. Their detailed drawings helped us visualise the project. They were thorough in ensuring the right specifications, easy to contact, and willing to visit the site frequently. Their team was quiet and tidy, making the process seamless. “The new building is beautiful, situated on the playground with wood cladding, making it environmentally friendly and visually appealing. Both students and teachers love it. The new furniture is bright and vivid, creating an inviting atmosphere. It has positively impacted everyone, from the before and after school club to the entire school community.” A spokesperson from Vivid Green added: "We are incredibly proud of the completed project at Kempshott Junior School. Our goal was to create a functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing space that would enhance the learning environment for students and teachers. Seeing the positive feedback and the way the new library and quiet room have been embraced by the school community is truly rewarding. "This project highlights the significant benefits of schools and councils collaborating with small businesses like Vivid Green. We specialise in designing and building bespoke modular classrooms tailored to specific spaces, using the most thermally efficient and eco-friendly SIP building solutions. We aim to create a long-lasting and positive impact on educational environments for generations to come." www.vividgreen.co.uk
advertisement feature Tel: 01376 534 700 Email: [email protected] Instagram/Twitter: @junckersfloors Website: www.junckers.co.uk Solid wood flooring for Scotland’s first Passivhaus primary school Designed by Architype who acted both as architect and Passivhaus designer, Riverside Primary School in Perth & Kinross is the first in Scotland to be built to the Passivhaus standard. Built to support healthy and innovative learning and at the same time minimise energy consumption and emissions, the building is estimated to reduce the school’s energy costs by around 70%. Riverside Primary School is not only the first of its kind, it serves as an important reference project for all new schools being built in Scotland. The Learning Investment Programme (LEIP), established by the Scottish Futures Trust (SFT), who work with public and private sectors to finance infrastructure projects, incentivises reductions in energy consumption and emissions for newly built schools, as well as improving indoor air quality for students and teachers. The new building provides better thermal comfort and ventilation with lower emissions and operational costs. All materials were carefully chosen for their performance and ability to create a warm, natural environment. Natural, non-toxic materials including Junckers’ flooring, create a high-quality finish that also enhances wellbeing for students and staff. Often specified for Passivhaus buildings, Junckers solid hardwood floors carry the Danish Indoor Climate Label, certifying there are no chemical substances that will adversely affect indoor air quality. Installed in the school’s large multipurpose, multi-activity hall, Junckers SylvaSport Beech flooring has a perfectly smooth surface which cannot harbour dust or mites. The natural properties inherent in wood also helps to minimise static from electrical equipment. Beech is a light-coloured timber species which helps to maximise natural light levels by reflecting light into the hall, reducing the need for artificial lighting. In contrast to a dark surface which holds heat and consequently reflects it back into the room, a pale-coloured floor will not contribute to overheating, reducing the energy demand on air cooling systems. Schools are expected to experience decades or even centuries of use. Specifying materials with a proven long lifespan not only means lower life cycle costs, it can also contribute substantially to lower embodied carbon emissions. A Junckers floor can be expected to last well over the 60+ year design life standard. Made in solid wood, it can be sanded and refinished up to ten times without loss of performance. With 12- year intervals between sandings, it is arguably one of the longest lasting flooring options available and will comfortably exceed the industry standard. Riverside Primary School has won the Learning Places Scotland Award: Innovation in Delivering a Sustainable Learning Space; and has been shortlisted for a Scottish Design Award 2024.
For a site visit or quick quote: call us on 01380 830 697 visit www.coprisystems.com Our bespoke sports structures for schools use natural light and ventilation to create incredible spaces to play in all year round.
educationdab.co.uk 15 event preview STABLE Events’ education building forum is approaching fast – so do put November 12 and 13 in your diary and get in touch as soon as possible to book your place at this popular mustattend gathering. We’re revisiting one of our favourite venues, The Belfry Hotel & Resort, home of the iconic golf course, and set in beautifully scenic countryside. There we’ll be discussing all the latest industry issues and facilitating meetings between like-minded professionals who can help each other do business more smoothly and efficiently. The speaker sessions at the education building forum are designed to explore current sector trends and challenges whilst sharing knowledge and sparking conversations as to what is the future of construction within education. We’re always keen to offer the broadest range of views and topics, so if you’re interested in being one of our speakers in November, please do get in touch with Georgie Smith, Delegate Relations Manager (contact details below) to discuss the opportunity. As well as engaging with presenters in a relaxed setting, delegates at the education building forum can network extensively with their peers. Attending will be education estates and facilities professionals in the schools and universities sectors, architects, consultants, contractors, project managers and M&E specialists plus a wide range of key suppliers from across the education spectrum. Held over one and half days in this fabulous setting, the schedule of seminars and one-on-one business meetings is complemented by an extensive social programme including an informal gala dinner on the 12th. What’s included: As a complimentary project delegate your place includes extensive networking with peers and potential business partners, 1-1 meetings with innovative suppliers of your choice and hearing from expert speakers during our seminar sessions. Additionally, we provide 1-2 nights’ accommodation, all your meals and refreshments, exclusive project delegate drinks reception and a delicious three course meal and entertainment at our gala dinner. Contact Details: Project Delegates and Speakers: Georgie, on [email protected] Suppliers: Julian on [email protected] Alternatively, you can call 0208 288 1080. www.eb-forum.co.uk What: The education building forum 2024 When: 12-13 November Where: The Belfry Hotel & Resort Web: www.eb-forum.co.uk Join us at The Belfry for the latest industry insights A hole-in-one networking event! For the golfers in our community the day before the event (November 11th) we are also hosting a networking golf day and offering you the opportunity to play a round of golf on the prestigious Brabazon course.
16 educationdab.co.uk flooring Flooring boosts sustainability in new eco-friendly primary TWO Rivers Primary School in Keynsham, Somerset, is only the second school in the country to achieve Passivhaus Plus accreditation. To achieve this impressive milestone, architects Hatcher Prichard had to make conscious choices when it came to choosing materials for this project. With outstanding sustainability credentials and a wide portfolio of solutions suitable for the education sector, Hatcher Prichard specified a variety of Forbo Flooring Systems’ contemporary floor coverings, including its Tessera carpet tiles, Sphera and Eternal vinyl floor coverings, as well as both its Surestep and Safestep safety flooring. A new build primary school for 420 pupils, Two Rivers Primary School was designed to add the much-needed provision for primary education to children in the Keynsham area, whilst also following sustainable building practices. With the requirement to achieve Passivhaus Plus accreditation, which meant the building had to produce as much energy as the occupants use, Hatcher Prichard had to carefully consider the materials used in the construction of this building. Simon Hatcher, Director at Hatcher Prichard, commented: “Two Rivers achieved Passivhaus Plus accreditation in February 2023 and is only the second school in the country to do so. It is also the first to be built using standard building materials, including a steel frame with concrete floor slabs. When it came to specifying materials for the building, we looked for manufacturers that had strong sustainability credentials. With Forbo’s environmental goals so aligned with our own, and that of the building as a whole, it meant they were key to finishing this wonderful building.” However, as well as the sustainability objectives that Hatcher had to keep in mind, he also had to meet the design requirements. He said: “We were supplied with a document by the Department for Education on the Employer’s Requirements, which includes a section on floor coverings and the factors to consider when specifying materials for schools. The main area of consideration though was the functionality of the flooring; it had to withstand the heavy foot traffic we would expect to see in a school, whilst also being easy to clean and maintain. “Additionally, the floor coverings needed to be installed seamlessly alongside each other to keep the joints between them flush, as well as provide some slip resistance. The chosen floor coverings also had to be suitable for the usage of each room, with the colourways used also needing to be appropriate for the age of the children using the space. The Forbo account managers really helped with this, thanks to their understanding of how specific products from Forbo’s portfolio met the individual requirements of each room in the school.” With the suitability of colours in mind, Simon looked to incorporate elements of the local environment into the design, as well as take inspiration from the school name too. He explained: “The design of the school draws from its location at the heart of Hygge Park, Keynsham. The surrounding area has a calm, Scandinavian palette of colours and materials, with the local houses made from light buff brickwork with white render above. We opted to use matching buff brick and white render externally, with complimentary blues, greys and whites for the walls and other surfaces inside. All the floor finishes were supplied using the contemporary and durable range of Forbo products required for each individual space. For example, Forbo’s Eternal vinyl was specified in the Washed Beech wood décor for the hall, hall store, studio and servery areas, which provided a natural contrast to the white paint on the walls, without being too distracting. “We also specified Forbo’s Sphera homogenous vinyl in a clear blue colourway, to represent the ‘two rivers’ of the school’s name, which runs along the ground floor corridor and extends back up along the first floor. We also used Forbo’s Eternal vinyl in the Smoke colourway for all the ground floor classrooms, which created a calm and neutral feeling.” www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/education www.hatcherprichard.co.uk
educationdab.co.uk 17 lighting A brighter future starts with the right lighting Phil Brown of NVC Lighting explains the role that LED lighting can play in helping educational establishments reduce energy costs and their carbon footprint, while also creating the optimal learning environment for pupils and staff THE education sector is a dynamic and demanding environment, where the choice of lighting is more than just a practical consideration, it’s pivotal. It’s not just about creating the right learning conditions to help improve student performance, safety, and wellbeing, but it’s also about how lighting can help schools and colleges tackle rising energy costs and enhance their sustainability credentials. In recent years, commercial LED lighting solutions have emerged as the innovative choice for the sector, both in new build and refurbishment projects. Those responsible for the specification process for new educational establishments, or facilities managers in charge of the buildings ongoing maintenance programme, have embraced LED lighting at a rapid rate. One of the key drivers for this is the energy efficiency of LED lights. They consume significantly less electricity compared to traditional incandescent or fluorescent fittings, which translates into substantial cost savings for educational buildings. This can be into the tens of thousands of pounds per year dependent on the size of the building, so payback on investment might be a lot quicker than you think. The long lifespan of LED solutions further reduces ongoing maintenance and replacement costs as well. These huge energy savings have a massive impact on a building’s carbon footprint, significantly enhancing sustainability and environmental credentials. What’s critical is installing lighting that will improve academic performance, encourage concentration and engagement, and enhance the occupant’s mood and behaviour. LED lighting offers superior quality and control, mimicking natural light more effectively than conventional options. In classrooms for example, for compliance with BS EN 12464, illuminance at desk level should be 300-500 lux for most classrooms, with 0.6-0.7 uniformity. Glare also needs to be considered carefully, which can prevent students from seeing their teacher, or the whiteboard, clearly. Glare also prevents teachers from making eye-contact with pupils and in the worst case can cause headaches, tiredness, and absenteeism. Reducing the contrast between ceiling and the light fittings is one way to reduce glare, with the unified glare rating (UGR) recommended to be <19. The continuous advancement of LED technology means that fixtures can be integrated with lighting controls (smart wireless controls or wired DALI controls), allowing for the central management of lighting systems across multiple buildings. This not only enhances energy efficiency, but it also enables facilities managers to tailor lighting scenarios to specific activities, intermittent occupancy levels, times of the day or seasons in the year. Motion sensors and daylight harvesting features further optimise energy usage by automatically adjusting lighting levels based on occupancy and natural light availability. If plenty of daylight is available, lighting controls can exploit this, but window rows in classrooms for instance need to be controlled separately from other rows. For less supervised spaces, like corridors and changing rooms, the lighting solution must be robust, with fittings that feature a high IP rating (impact protection). Changing rooms should have IP44 minimum, whilst kitchens and labs should have IP54 minimum. Finally, LED lighting can and should be integrated with emergency lighting systems, ensuring educational buildings are fully prepared if a crisis occurs. www.nvcuk.com
18 educationdab.co.uk exteriors Headington School gets new boathouse THE joinery specialist Stepnell has completed the build of Maddy Moorings boathouse for Headington School in Oxfordshire. The new facilities will enhance the independent girl's day and boarding school's ability to develop rowing talent - home to one of the UK’s top school boat clubs. Stepnell has built the new state-ofthe-art two-storey boathouse on the river Thames, in Long Wittenham, south of Abingdon. Designed by project architects Spratley & Partners, the boathouse can accommodate storage for up to 50 rowing boats. Ian Batchelor, contracts manager at Stepnell, said: “Maddy Moorings boathouse has been an intricate project to provide modern and sustainable rowing facilities. The build is equally world-class in specification, but also built with methods and materials of construction that were not disruptive to the local biodiversity during the build, nor will be in the longterm to the ecosystem along the river. “With the school being one of the UK’s top educational institutions for rowing, we are proud to have used our leisure expertise to deliver sporting infrastructure that will contribute significant lasting value to the schools’ future successes.” The location and configuration of the boathouse were carefully designed to minimise impact on the site. Inside the building there is a large boat storage area, a multi-use training room and welfare facilities. It will provide a first-class training facility for the school’s high achieving rowing team for years to come. The low-maintenance, energy-efficient boathouse, elevated on 60 steel columns includes an indoor communal area, with an accompanying balcony overlooking the river for spectating. Boats can be accessed and carried via three bespoke double doors opening up to a large staircase, all designed and built by Stepnell’s dedicated joinery team. Completing the boathouse externally is a comprehensive package, including a stunning timber façade, river pontoons which rise and fall and a wet dock area. The wildflower roof proudly boasts biological variability. Enhanced road access routes, additional parking spaces and new surface water drainage have also been installed to improve the accessibility and usability of the site. Bringing in expertise from ecologists at the Environment Agency, Stepnell ensured that any key environmental concerns would be identified and addressed before building along the Thames. This included undertaking flood risk management, identifying the presence of water voles and ensuring the protection of trees, bats, and nesting birds. www.stepnell.co.uk/services/joinery www.spratley-partners.uk Security fencing upgrade for Chigwell School CHIGWELL School, a co-educational independent boarding and day school in Essex has undergone a number of developments over the years, including the building of a new sixth form centre, a dining hall extension, chapel renovation, junior school expansion, roof restorations, and most recently, a new sport and wellness centre – the largest project in the school’s history. The eco-friendly sports centre includes a six-lane swimming pool, a fivecourt multipurpose sports hall, a gym, studio rooms, and a café. As the layout of the site has changed significantly, a number of new physical security upgrades were required such as the installation of fencing and gates. Jacksons Fencing was commissioned for the task. To fit with the schedule of works set out by the main contractor, it was tasked with splitting the installation into areas to ensure there was minimal disruption. Flatform gates were installed to protect the pupils and vehicles and provide a separate car park and entrance. As the sports centre can be used outside of school hours for residents, group, and clubs, the adjacent drama centre had the requirement for security at night. In addition, the drama centre can be hired externally for performances. Having a secure car park improves the value of the building, and provides a dedicated space for visitors to leave their vehicles safely. www. jacksons-fencing.co.uk
20 educationdab.co.uk m&e Renewable heating renovation at South Yorkshire primary school MARSHLAND Primary Academy, in Moorends, Doncaster, is preparing for the future by switching its heating and hot water system from gas boilers to highly efficient, low-carbon ground source heat pumps. Kensa Contracting, a UK ground source heat pump solutions provider, is delivering the retrofit project, and in late June representatives were on hand to show the school’s pupils how freely available, renewable heat energy from the ground will be used to keep classrooms warm for the next 100 years. Switching from gas to electricallypowered ground source heat pumps will decarbonise the school's heating and hot water system, reducing the CO2 emissions it produces from heat by as much as 77%. The decarbonisation project, which started in May and is expected to be completed in October, has been partfunded by the Government’s Condition Improvement Fund and will see 18 boreholes drilled deep beneath the school’s playing field to access the renewable energy source. Once installed, six new ground source heat pumps will convert this energy into usable heat for the school’s upgraded heating and hot water system. The heat pumps will also be housed indoors, shielded from the elements, with some located where the school’s current gas boilers are. Along with the heat pumps and ground source infrastructure installation, the school’s green heating renovations also include new radiators and solar PVT being fitted. These measures will help the primary academy achieve the highest possible energy efficiencies while also providing greater energy security. This latest project follows a string of school ground source heat pump installations undertaken by Kensa, which is the Department for Education’s preferred heat pump method for decarbonising heat in schools. School ground source heat pump projects completed by Kensa include installations at Richmond Hill Primary School, also in Doncaster, Stamfordham Primary School in Newcastle-UponTyne and a one-of-a-kind installation for Ffynnon Taf Primary School in Taffs Well, Wales. Commenting, Penny Marshall, Deputy Headteacher at Marshland Primary Academy, said: "We are very excited by the new innovative heating system. It is wonderful for Marshland to be at the forefront of new technology. At the same time, hopefully, it will save us money on our heating bills and, most importantly, support our quest to help combat climate change.” Discussing the project, Anna Cain, Kensa Contracting Operation Director, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Marshland Primary Academy. When complete, their new ground source heat pump heating system will provide the school, its teachers, and pupils with 100+ years of highly efficient, clean heating and hot water – all thanks to the renewable heat stored in the ground. “Thousands of schools right across the UK will likely need to change their heating in the coming years, with the Government aiming to reduce public sector emissions by 75%. Our ground source heat pump solution cuts those emissions and provides heating and hot water for the long term, giving any school that invests in the technology the reassurance they’ve secured their heating source for many years to come.” www.kensaheatpumps.com
BATH-OVER-BATH SHOWER-OVER-SHOWER Hospitality Health Multi-unit Cruise ships Student Accommodation Military Assisted living Council housing CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION 020452 52255 BATHFITTER.CO.UK +353 01 592 1717 BATHFITTER.IE A BETTER WAY TO RENOVATE For 40 years, Bath Fitter has revolutionized bath renovation. Our process puts a new bath or shower in place in as little as one day, with no messy demolition. Best of all, our product is built to last for a lifetime. INDUSTRIES SERVED
Project Delegates Join us to expand your professional network and stay updated on the latest developments in the industry. [email protected] Suppliers Meet with the decision makers delivering active projects in the education building environment. [email protected] 12th – 13th Nov 2024 The Belfry Hotel & Resort, Warwickshire The education building forum provides the perfect environment for local authorities, university estates, college and school leaders, project managers, architects, contractors across the education environment to meet with leading industry suppliers, in a relaxed, sociable environment to create lasting business relationships. Tel: 020 8288 1080 www.eb-forum.co.uk meet. connect. do business. Creating meaningful connections in business Pre-scheduled 1-2-1 meetings Select who you want to meet! Receive a bespoke meeting schedule prior to the forum, plus a printed directory with all attendee details. Gain industry knowledge Get exclusive entry to informative seminars, hosted by industry leading professionals discussing key topics in the industry. Extensive networking After a busy day of meetings, naturally extend your relationships over lunches, coffee breaks and networking drinks.
highereducationestates 23 OVER the past few years, the many splendid projects we have featured in these pages have given every indication of a proud and flourishing university sector. Its leaders have spent billions on buildings – many of which went on to win the highest architectural awards – that draw domestic students and their peers from across the world to study in Britain. Sports and cultural facilities benefitted from this wave of investment every bit as much as lecture theatres and laboratories. Off the back of this glorious age of building, government ministers and vice chancellors alike regularly pronounced our universities the envy of the world, underpinning the nation’s journey into the new technological age. Sadly, the picture is nowhere near as rosy as it seemed. Money to fund all this investment, and indeed the many billions more required for transitioning university estates to net zero, is drying up and many universities feel extremely exposed to a harsh new financial climate. A report commissioned by the Office for Students, the university regulator, has forecast that 40 per cent of England’s universities will run budget deficits this year and has warned of closures and mergers. Courses, departments and thousands of jobs are under threat across the academic spectrum. Many of the colleges facing a nearexistential crisis have spent heavily on new facilities over the past decade and more. In what had become a building arms race between universities, it seemed the only way to keep pace with competing peers and attract students. Now, with government tightening up on overseas students – by far the most lucrative demographic for admissions tutors – and domestic student fees lagging far behind the past few years’ inflation, pigeons are coming home to roost and a major rationalisation of the sector seems the only possible outcome. With government budgets under extreme pressure on every front, it’s unlikely much help will be forthcoming from Whitehall. Raising students fees slightly to help academia may be allowed but nowhere enough to compensate for the fall in overseas student income as entry visa requirements are tightened. Yet the government must remember – and re-commit to – the many statements made about how important universities are to the future prosperity of the country. As the Russell Group has regularly pointed out, universities are playing a leading role as the UK works to hit Net Zero targets responsibly. Government’s ability to deliver this vision will be shaped and determined by the strength of cities, towns and communities across the UK and by the partnerships between academia and business that can be harnessed to make the most of the opportunities and resources available. So yes, a Darwinian process is at work in the university sector, and establishments that have over-extended will be forced to merge or close, sadly with inevitable knock-on effects for staff, students and their local communities. But following the shake out, government must double its efforts to be strong and supportive partner to the university sector, looking to foster opportunities wherever it can to fuse brains and business for the good of the nation. Editor Andrew Pring Sales director Julian Walter Production Nicola Cann Design Sandra Cid Managing director Toby Filby The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. Publishers Stable Publishing Limited, SBC House, Restmor Way, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. [email protected] leader and content Universities essential for rebuilding Britain Andrew Pring Editor [email protected] inside this issue J/Aug 2024 26The art of refurb BDP has refurbished two brutalist buildings at Coventry University to create a modern home for the College of Arts and Society. 28Sound of silence Acoustic specialists have excelled at new student accommodation for St Catharine’s College, Cambridge. 29Lights, action Leading-edge lighting brands have been specified by the University of Leeds Estates team. 31Green water Advanced water management technologies are revolutionising sustainability, hygiene and operational efficiency in educational settings. 26 31
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=