Creating a place where people can thrive: A senior site manager’s mission to transform his former school
St John Fisher Catholic High School in Wigan is a mixed comprehensive faith school for 11 to 16-year-olds.
The old school is being replaced by a new block that will bring together the upper and lower schools, currently on two separate sites, to accommodate 900 pupils and 285 sixth-form students.
For Tom Myers, leading the building and renovation of St John Fisher School is more than just a project – it’s a personal journey. As someone who once walked these halls as a student, Tom now has the unique privilege of shaping the future of the very place that helped shape him.
We sat down with Tom to hear what this experience means to him, the impact on the community, and the rewarding moments along the way.
Tell us about your role and involvement in the project.
I joined the project in October 2022, midway through the enabling works phase. At that time, I was one of the site managers, working closely with the team to hand over the temporary modular school block. From there, I moved onto the main construction phase, looking after the sports block and main teaching block, from spade in the ground to key in the door.
During the demolition phase, I stepped up as senior site manager, overseeing the full scope of the project day-to-day. My role is all about safe and efficient delivery, coordinating subcontractors, managing programme timelines, and ensuring the highest standards are adhered to.
This project is particularly special to me because it’s my former high school—a place that played a big part in shaping who I am today. It’s a rare and rewarding opportunity to give something back to my community and a school that gave me so much.
You attended this school as a child. How does it feel to now be leading its transformation?
Honestly, it’s surreal. Walking through corridors and yards where I spent my younger years, but now as a senior site manager, brings a real sense of pride and nostalgia. I remember my old classrooms and the astro pitch where we played football. Some teachers are still here, and most of them remember me (for the right reasons, thankfully!)
Now, I’m part of the team transforming those same spaces for future generations. That’s something I don’t take lightly. There’s a passionate connection to every element of the work. I want everything done to the very best of my ability and to the highest standards, just as I was taught at school.
How do your personal ties influence the way this project serves the community?
Having that connection brings a unique depth of commitment and understanding. When I found out I’d be part of this project, I went back to speak with students about my journey from school to a career in construction, hoping to inspire the next generation. I’ve also taken part in careers fairs throughout the project to show students real pathways into the industry.
What do you hope the finished building represents for future generations?
When I attended, the school was split into departmental blocks. The oldest dated back to the 1960s, back then it was tired, dilapidated and well past its use-by date. The new school represents hope, opportunity and belonging. The building may have changed, but the mission and purpose remain the same.
Has your personal connection made certain decisions easier or harder?
One moment stands out. When we began demolition in January 2023, we were asked to retain two original stones laid during the opening of the 1960s building. The team carefully removed and stored them for 18 months, preserving these pieces of history while we built for the future. Seeing them re-laid as part of the final scheme is a powerful reminder that while buildings change, the spirit and stories they hold continue to shape the school.
What’s been the most rewarding part of this journey?
When I was a student, there was a sense of belief that if you worked hard, you could achieve great things. I left school wanting a career in sport, but when that didn’t work out, I started again in construction, from the very bottom as a site labourer. Over time, I moved into joinery and furniture fitting, then became a supervisor for a small construction business, travelling the country on fit-out projects that grew bigger and bigger.
I decided I wanted to work on large-scale projects from concept to completion. I joined Wates in August 2021, and since then, I’ve bought my first house and have my first child on the way. Completing this project will be the most rewarding achievement of my career so far and hopefully a stepping stone to even bigger ambitions.
How will this project change the experience for students, teachers and families?
The new school brings all departments together under one roof, making it easier to navigate. The facilities are worlds apart from what was here before and will have a huge impact on learning by creating a high-quality environment for students and teachers.
St John Fisher has a track record of producing rugby super league players. With the new state-of-the-art sports facilities, we hope the school will continue to develop more future professional athletes.
When you see the progress on site, what makes you most proud?
I feel a huge sense of pride. I like to do things safely and to the best of my ability – values I learned both at this school and at Wates. Working with a team at Wates who share those values has had a positive impact on the whole scheme, and that’s reflected in the quality of the buildings. Problems do arise, but as professionals, we put them right; it’s part of the job.
Our team’s dedication is demonstrated by our achievement of a perfect 45 out of 45 score in the Considerate Constructors Scheme. But the proudest moment will be when I finally leave site for the last time, knowing I’ve left behind something I’ve lived and breathed for four years. I want to walk away knowing I’ve left a positive legacy and that the school can thrive again for generations to come. I know firsthand how much of an impact this place can have on a young person’s life. It’s a full-circle moment and one I feel genuinely privileged to be part of.”
Tom Myers
Senior Site Manager
