Britcon was appointed by Stockton Borough Council to deliver a new 1,800m² teaching block extension at Bishopsgarth Outwood Academy in Stockton on Tees. The £4.6 million project was designed to enhance the academy’s educational facilities, providing modern teaching accommodation and a new canteen across two floors. Delivered within a live school environment, the development supports the academy’s growing student population while creating a high quality learning environment for future generations.
Scope of Works
The 47 week programme involved the construction of a new two storey steel framed building, incorporating modern teaching spaces, staff facilities and a spacious canteen. The structure featured a steel frame, brick and insulated cladding envelope, aluminium windows and a Bauder Green Roof system.
External works formed a significant part of the project and included the extension of the existing car park, new service installations and comprehensive landscaping. As part of the site’s sustainable drainage strategy, a large stormwater attenuation system was installed to manage surface water runoff and support the development’s environmental objectives. The project also included the integration of new drainage systems into existing infrastructure and extensive planting to enhance the surrounding environment.
Challenges
Delivering construction works within a live educational setting required meticulous planning and collaboration with the academy to ensure the safety of students, staff and visitors throughout the programme. Maintaining uninterrupted school operations while carrying out major construction activities demanded carefully managed logistics, secure site segregation and strict safeguarding procedures.
The location presented additional challenges due to its setting within a conservation area. Existing tree protection orders required careful consideration throughout the works, influencing construction methods, drainage connections and site operations. Extensive coordination was required to install new infrastructure while protecting existing trees and minimising environmental impact. Britcon also managed specialist subcontractor packages and maintained a strong local supply chain, with 78% of subcontract packages awarded to local businesses.
Outcomes
The completed teaching block has significantly enhanced the academy’s educational provision, providing high quality teaching spaces and a modern dining facility that supports the needs of both students and staff. The project was delivered on programme and successfully integrated into the existing campus without disruption to day to day school activities.
The development has created a contemporary and energy efficient learning environment while improving the overall functionality of the school estate. Through careful planning, sustainable drainage solutions and extensive landscaping, the project also delivered long term environmental benefits. The successful completion of the scheme reflects Britcon’s ability to deliver complex education projects safely, sustainably and within live operational environments.