Oathall Community College Major Rebuilding of Science & Maths Block

This project in Haywards Heath required the full reconfiguration and rebuilding of existing Science & Maths Block together with prior enabling works to provide temporary classrooms for the duration of the build. 

Originally constructed in 1974 under the SCoLA school building programme, the SAM building was, by modern standards, uncomfortable to work in, expensive to maintain and suffered from layout and accessibility issues.

Enabling works were first undertaken to provide temporary classrooms in other parts of the school, whilst the main works were surrounded by a secure compound within the school grounds, so the college was able to function fully throughout the period of the build.

This major refurbishment required stripping the building back to metal frame, concrete floors and low-level brickwork, including the removal of all asbestos.

Rebuilding of the envelope included the installation of thermal insulation, external cladding in Etnernit Cedral lap weatherboarding, new roofing and the installation of new aluminium-framed windows. Internally, new heating, LED lighting and fire safety systems were provided, together with major reorganization of room lalyouts. The original entrance was reconfigured with a slope replacing steps to provide full accessibility to the ground floor.

The completed project provided a well-designed, visually appealing building accommodating 9 new science labs, 2 prep rooms, 7 general classrooms, 1 ICT room, new toilet facilities and office/staff rooms.

Project Team:

Architect:   Morgan Carn Partnership

Engineer:  Archibald Shaw

Client Agent:  Grant Associates