The building form comprises three core areas: The Teaching Block (which is two-storey to maximise available space), single-storey Studio, Kitchen and Plant Room, and the Hall. The Library is located at the centre of the school, creating a double height ‘heart space’ with views and natural daylighting from the first floor.

The school was constructed using a hybrid Structurally Insulated Panel System solution that incorporated pre-cast concrete upper floors and staircases. The high level of off-site fabrication required significant pre-construction co-ordination between the SIPS frame and M&E services contractors, saving over a month construction time against traditional alternatives, and significantly reducing the projects carbon footprint

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Construction generated employment opportunities for local people, with three apprentices working on the project through our sub-contractors. A Barnes Construction Management Trainee also worked on site and was subsequently promoted to an Assistant Site Manager role within the business. Waste timber was collected by the Community Wood Recycling Scheme, which created further employment and training opportunities, as well as diverting waste from landfill.

“Thank you so much! We are delighted with the building! The Barnes team have been amazing throughout the project”
The Chelmsford Learning Partnership