Wilmcote Primary School

MPH received a glowing report from school governor Roger Harrison when evaluating their work on this complex project. On initial inspection, it was apparent that the job would present numerous challenges over and above the typical concerns associated with securing segregation from pupils and staff on a live school site. MPH, appointed as the principal contractor in a full turnkey package, were faced with limited access to the school, and the first priority was liaison with the highways authorities to action road closures and diversions for crane operations.

Acknowledging the inherent difficulties of the job, Mr Harrison explained that his confidence in MPH stemmed from the first meeting of the parties: “After the tender process, from which MPH were selected, project meetings reassured the head teacher, deputy head and governors that Wilmcote School were dealing with a professional organisation who understood all our requirements and circumstances.”

The school needed to replace two antiquated wooden classrooms that accommodated around 100 pupils and which were no longer adequate for contemporary teaching and learning demands. With plans submitted by architects acting on behalf of the Coventry Diocese, it was imperative that the work undertaken respected the heritage of a traditional Church of England school and met the approval of Stratford-on-Avon District Council. It was also incumbent upon MPH to adhere to stringent planning conditions to ensure that the new modular construction was symbiotic with the existing architecture. To achieve this objective, the exterior design featured an insulated render system, a proprietary stone slip cladding system and a green sedum roof that also served as a mechanism for a sustainable urban drainage system.

The completed modular building comprised two classrooms, a group area and toilet facilities. The mechanical and electrical installations incorporated air source heat pumps and an LED lighting scheme. Internal walls were taped, filled and decorated for a more traditional appearance.

Mr Harrison went on to say: “During the construction phase, we were not disappointed. All of the work was carried out efficiently and to a high standard and with full consideration for the daily school timetable. What’s more, the project was finished on time, despite the tight site working conditions. After completion and the move across the playground for the children and the staff, everyone was delighted, with top marks from the children for the sedum roof and air conditioning.”