The conversion of Corfe Castle CE VC First School into a Primary School.
The project and background
The project at Corfe Castle Primary School was part of the reorganisation of Purbeck schools, which involved changing the educational structure from a three tier to a two tier system.
As part of this reorganisation, Corfe Castle CE First School became a 0.5 form entry primary school. The project involved the creation of a new hall including a servery and new entrance. The existing school was refurbished and remodelled to create a new classbase and resource area from the existing hall area. The project started on site in December 2012 and was completed in September 2013.
The new school hall at Corfe Castle CE VC Primary School was awarded Society for Construction and Architecture in Local Authorities (SCALA) CIVIC BUILDING of the YEAR 2014, in the small project category.
The design
The new hall area is 140 metres squared excluding the store, servery, WCs and boiler room. The materials were selected from studying the architecture of the existing school and nearby surroundings. The feature front elevation was constructed from Purbeck stone with brick to the side and rear elevations. The roof is plain clay tiles to match the existing with high level glazing providing a modern level of detailing.
Sustainable design solutions included the provision of photovoltaic panels, lighting controls and thermostats, energy efficient light fittings and energy efficient boilers.
External works and landscape
External works included the provision of a new fence parallel to the old stone wall, creating a secure boundary for the school, allowing pedestrian access from East Street to the new entrance porch. A new 33 metre x 25 metre games court with a tarmac surface, surrounded by a fence and hedge was also provided.
The design team and main constructor
The project to convert Corfe Castle CE VC First School into a Primary School was procured and project managed by Dorset Property. The design team and main constructor were as follows:
- Client: The Asset Management Group for Cabinet, represented by the Director of Children's Services
- Project manager: Dorset Property
- Architect: Dorset Property
- Cost consultant: Dorset Property
- Mechanical engineer: Dorset Property
- Electrical engineer: Dorset Property
- Landscape architect: Dorset Property
- Structural engineer: Parsons Brinkerhoff Ltd
- CDM co-ordinator: Stride Treglown
- Clerk of works: Dorset Property
- Main constructor: Interserve