St Peter’s Catholic School

The St Peter’s School project involved a phased development, primarily focused on the relocation of Years 7-8 from the lower school to the upper school site, whilst refurbishing and remodelling the existing school accommodation.

cube_design became involved with the scheme through an invitation from Construction Framework South West (CFSW). The programme was identified as being extremely ambitious, the requirement for a new four-storey accommodation block within a 15 month period from start to completion, together with creating a bridge link, new playing fields, associated external works and car parking. The competition was over a six-week period, and cube_design had to undertake the feasibility, concept design and detailed design sufficient to enable the contractor to cost.

cube_design were subsequently awarded on the merits of the design solution and innovative approach in terms of design, collaboration and cost elements from the contractor.

The building consists of approximately 3300 sqm of teaching accommodation providing 16 general teaching classrooms, 2 art classrooms, sixth form art room, 2 science rooms and science prep room, dining, hall, kitchen, PE facilities, staff offices and plant, WC and support areas. A new MUGA replaced the old tarmac courts, providing the School with an all- weather facility that can also serve the local community.

Alternative options and proposals were suggested with a focus on compliance with the budget, programme and accommodation. Clear and constant communication between the contractor and design team resulted in a cohesive planning submission for the project on the 28th November 2014.

The principle of the team’s collaborative ethos was established from the outset: a focus on good communication, addressing and overcoming problems together and keeping the client abreast of progress and any challenges that occurred. In addition to regular project meetings, Wates set up a series of ‘Delivering the Promise’ gatherings, which gave an opportunity for all parties to come together and establish shared values and expectations. These meetings served to allay any concerns that the client had and to set down goals for the project.