The construction build comprised of a structural steel frame with the mid-floor level being formed using unispan flat slabs, with a concrete topping.

The exterior cladding was a mix of metal wall cladding and Trespa high-pressure laminate panels and glazed aluminium joinery.

Interior works consisted of painted plasterboard wall linings, suspended ceilings with vinyl and carpet tile floor coverings. Feature also included Autex decorative acoustic wall panels and internal glazed partitions, and sliding acoustic doors.

Configuration of new teaching spaces beyond and above all lead onto generous covered exterior decks and stairwells. Extensively covered, outdoor spaces are provided at all levels to maximise opportunities for outdoor gear. Exterior hard and soft landscaping created a generous and harmonious flow and connection to the new teaching block and existing school areas.

The form of the building provides shading to almost all windows, maximising day lighting while reducing glare and solar heat gain.

The selection of the Trespa exterior wall claddings was driven by the need for inherent durability and low maintenance, as well as keeping within the available budget and connection with the local environment.

Watts & Hughes Specific Involvement:

Watts & Hughes selected and assembled the design team for this project at the RFT Stage. We provided the single-line accountability to the client and the overall control of all phases of the work.

Contract works included masterplan confirmation, liaison with MoE, the school management, the BOT, stakeholders and user groups. Design phases included preliminary, developed and detailed design with periodic value engineering workshops, preparation of elemental and final cost, necessary approvals and consenting.

Watts & Hughes were able to take steps using additional resources and alternative work sequences to recover the lost time through global market delays in materials and achieve practical completion ahead of the original programme completion date.

Watts & Hughes provided supervision and management of all preconstruction and construction works. All trade works were subcontracted to competent building firms able to meet the quality, safety and time constraints of this project.

Watts & Hughes was responsible for all works on this contract from master planning to final completion, testing, commissioning and handover. The school management team and stakeholders confirmed that they are very happy with the new classroom facility.

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