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With the UK’s population steadily increasing, educational institutions at all levels are under pressure to gear themselves up to properly support the students of the future. With larger class sizes to plan for and limited space, schools, colleges and universities are looking for ways of accommodating larger headcounts.
For many, this need to expand has come at a time when resources and funding are already strained and the additional funding from the recent spending review has to stretch across many areas, from the expansion of the free school meals program to pay rises for teachers, as well as buildings and other resources. Therefore, finding solutions that are cost-effective, without compromising on quality has become a critical priority. One such solution lies with modular construction, which allows schools to adapt their estates quickly and to their unique needs without a hefty price tag.
Dealing with the here and now
Although data is suggesting that the number of pupils will increase over time, the latest figures actually suggest a temporary drop in numbers. Fluctuating classroom sizes, or ‘bulge years’, often put schools in the tricky position of having to plan resources to cope with the future, while having facilities that fit the needs of their current cohort. The larger year group will naturally need to be accommodated for all educational levels as they move through the schooling system but only for a short time period, meaning long term investment in building expansion projects is not always the most economical choice. Modular buildings have the option of being temporary or rental, giving more flexibility of having the solution suit a school’s needs. Modular buildings are also easy to scale. Schools can opt to construct one or two modules to begin with and then add more as needed. One of our recent projects helped us quickly deal with a sudden influx of applicants to Leeds City College at its Printworks Campus, following a nationwide push on STEM subject uptake from the government. With a number of operational and logistical challenges, including working with a Grade II listed building and working during term time, our team were able to construct a brand new, permanent facility installed in a matter of 2 weeks, instantly relieving pressures on staff and resources.
A pupil-first solution
Schools often want construction projects to take place during the holidays so that they can provide a quiet, calm learning environment with no disruption when pupils are onsite. A maximum of six weeks for completion would be a challenge, however, unlike traditional bricks and mortar buildings, modules can be on site and operational in a matter of weeks if necessary.
Our team are also experienced at working to the strict timelines of the school year. We recently added an office facility comprising of four modules to Beacon Hill Primary School in Bristol, which was seamlessly completed during the summer holidays, ready for the new academic year. The purpose-built space was complete with an open plan layout perfect for collaborative working and bathroom and kitchen facilities to minimise trips between buildings.
Customisation is key to quick adaptation
Modular buildings have the added advantage of being easy to customise, giving them the ability to swiftly adapt to a school’s everchanging needs. From a science lab to a library or from several offices to a sports hall, this unique versatility means that no space is wasted and allows schools to transform rooms into what they need when they need it.
Futureproofed in more ways than one
Planning for the future doesn’t just mean preparing for new students. With climate action plans now a requirement for all educational institutions, modular buildings also offer a sustainable building solution.
Premier Modular uses both sustainable methods and materials helping to reduce a school’s embodied and operational carbon. Our modules also have net zero capability, supporting institutions to achieve long-term sustainability goals.
We also ensure that our production process is as green as possible, meaning that none of our waste is sent to landfill, and our facilities are 100% powered by renewable sources.
Need to increase your school’s capacity? Find out more about our education solutions.
