Barker has worked with Berkhamsted Schools Group since 2018 providing various property and construction consultancy services from maintenance to refurbishment programmes including:
Berkhamsted appointed Barker to deliver 4 major projects in summer 2023.
Due to a surge in pupil numbers, Barker recently worked with the school to design an extension that would enable an increase in their classroom size from 39sqm to 48sqm. The project was engineered and designed to accommodate futureproofing, ensuring classrooms to the first floor could increase in floor area if required. The subsequent schemes consisted of three sequential projects which required relocation of classrooms, staffrooms and an office to more suitable locations around the campus.
Sitting on the school’s framework for project managers, Barker were selected to undertake the task. The extension required a new area for the food tech classroom, which in turn required the relocation of two other rooms to accommodate it. These rooms were at the end of their serviceable lifespan, so moving them also allowed Barker and Berkhamsted to refurbish the area to the school’s current vision for education.
Berkhamsted School had a clear idea of where they would like to relocate the food tech room and staffroom but wanted an options appraisal for the potential headteacher’s office areas to determine the best solution. The chosen plan was then executed by the team.
Navigating a live working environment has its challenges, however with careful pre-planning and scheduling of works after school hours and during term breaks, the team were able to deliver the projects with minimal disruption to staff and students.
There were also a few design changes that had to be made whilst on site. Due to the client and contract administrator being pro-active in their approach, holding regular meetings, there was no detrimental effect to the programme and any modifications were made quickly and efficiently.
All works were completed on time and within budget. Staff and pupils are very happy with the new extension. The movement and restructure of the rooms enabled the school to accommodate the increase in pupils so they could continue to deliver an outstanding education, in a functional and inspirational working environment.
