Campsmount Technology College, Doncaster

A step change in building schools

After being destroyed by fire in 2009, Campsmount Technology College in Doncaster was chosen to be the pilot scheme for the new rapid procurement process for academies. 

Subsequently it was used as the case study for the James Review of education capital, and was instrumental for providing the background of the review’s key recommendations.

The Wates proposal was put together in two months from the initial issue of the brief. The final costs for the project are £10.5 million against the £14.5 million like-for-like rebuild cost, with the construction phase lasting just twelve months.

Streamlined procurement, rapid completion

From an initial list of twelve bidders, within two weeks Wates were selected to progress to the next stage of the process. Wates then had six weeks to produce a sustainable and future proof design concept that offered competitive costs without compromise on quality, durability or performance.

Having been confirmed as Preferred Bidder in November 2010, Wates were ready to start work on site only 11 weeks later. Construction of the new college will be complete within a year.

Outstanding value

The project itself shows how an approach based on standardised, modular components can deliver a very high quality building that supports a school’s educational aims, for as little as £1,500m2 including design fees.

High quality, flexible accommodation

The new school provides approximately 7,500m2 of new space alongside the existing sports hall. The layout is simple and effective to allow different departments to collaborate without requiring staff and pupils to move around the building too often.

“The most striking feature of Wates work is the ability to listen and respond to the needs and requests of the client. I have found their outlook positive, flexible and intelligent. I am looking forward to realising our dream of a quality 21st Century learning environment and with Wates on board I am confident that this will be achieved.”

Andy Sprakes - HeadTeacher, Campsmount Technology College

Key facts:

• New Build secondary School, existing school fire damaged in 2009
• Existing Sports Hall remains
• GIFA of new school = 7,371m2
• Overall cost including design fees £1,500m2

Categories: new build, academies, CR, people, north east

Tags: Adapt School Solutions, Campsmount, Doncaster, PFS