St Peter’s High School

The maths block was an ageing steel-framed building clad with asbestos cement panels, which had fallen into a poor state of repair. The condition of the building meant that significant refurbishment was required to avoid further deterioration and improve the long-term performance of the structure.

The existing cladding posed several issues for the school. The asbestos cement panels were deteriorating and presented a potential risk to occupants, while the building fabric contributed to draughting, poor thermal performance and higher costs associated with maintaining a comfortable internal environment.

Before works began, the specification was developed by Garland, with constant assurance air monitoring carried out by CDM Environmental. This provided the necessary control and reassurance for a project involving asbestos removal within a live education setting.

The main challenge was delivering the refurbishment in a fully operational school while managing asbestos removal and multiple specialist trades. Central had to ensure the works were carefully planned around classroom use, with a strict classroom swap-out programme in place depending on where work was taking place.

Noise also had to be closely monitored due to the school remaining in use throughout the installation. With pupils, staff and visitors moving around the site, health and safety planning was a priority. The works required detailed site controls to protect occupants and maintain safe access around the building.

The window and cladding details also required careful management. As this was a refurbishment of an existing building, the installation could not always follow standard new-build practices around windows and flashings. Central worked through these details on site, coordinating the interface between cladding, fenestration and internal protection measures.

The completed project transformed the maths block, improving safety, aesthetics and thermal efficiency while allowing the school to remain operational throughout the works.

Central managed the refurbishment of the maths block façade, coordinating asbestos removal, cladding replacement and fenestration installation. The works included the installation of composite cladding panels and a Trespa cladding system, supported by window replacement to improve both the appearance and performance of the building.

The delivery involved several specialist contractors working alongside Central. C&G Scaffolding provided the scaffold, Top Fix delivered specialist cladding works, Avdon carried out the window installation, Kemdoc completed internal carpentry and hoarding works, Envira-Mech managed M&E removals, and RCG delivered the Trespa cladding installation.

As classrooms remained in use throughout the project, internal hoarding was installed where windows were removed, allowing the school to continue operating safely. The works required close coordination between Central, Hookway Chartered Surveyors and the appointed contractors to ensure each stage was completed around the school’s programme.

The finished refurbishment significantly improved the appearance of the maths block. The upgraded façade brought the building in line with thermal regulations, improved environmental performance and created a safer, more efficient learning environment for pupils and staff.