scope of work

UDC were appointed to deliver the internal remodelling and refurbishment of a number of areas within Mount St Joseph High School, including teaching spaces, changing facilities and the staff room. the project also involved the creation of new male WC facilities on the first floor and the conversion of three existing classrooms into dedicated Science Laboratories.

the Art, Design Technology and IT spaces were refurbished to provide more modern and functional teaching environments. the existing Design Technology and IT space was reconfigured to create two separate rooms, with new walls, electrical installations, flooring, ceilings, decoration, worktops and teaching screens. air conditioning was also introduced to the Design Technology room.

the staff room was reconfigured to make better use of the existing space, with an internal wall removed to create a larger and more practical room. the area was then fully refurbished with new flooring, ceilings, worktops and a new kitchen, together with a heat recovery unit and associated services. two existing changing rooms were also refurbished with new wall finishes, flooring and heat recovery units.

on the first floor, an existing kitchen area was converted into new male WC facilities, providing new cubicles, sanitary ware, sinks and hand dryers, together with new finishes and decoration.

a significant part of the project was the transformation of three existing classrooms into new Science Laboratories. the former teaching spaces were completely remodelled with new gas and electrical supplies, laboratory worktops and furniture, dedicated extraction, teaching screens, new flooring and associated fire alarm works. one of the laboratories was also adapted to provide a separate office space.

challenges faced

the project was delivered within a demanding five-week programme, with all works taking place during the school summer holidays. the fixed completion date meant that the refurbished areas needed to be ready for pupils and staff returning at the start of the new term.

a significant amount of work was taking place across multiple areas of the school at the same time, requiring careful planning and coordination between the different trades. this was particularly important for the new Science Laboratories, where new gas, electrical and extraction systems had to be integrated within the existing building alongside the new laboratory layouts and equipment.

to meet the programme, the team worked extended hours, including long shifts and weekends, allowing the works to progress at pace while maintaining close control of the programme and sequencing.

outcome

the project was completed within the demanding five-week programme, with the refurbished and newly created spaces ready for the school to reopen for the new term.

the project was positively received by the school, with Mrs A. Devany, Headteacher, commenting:

“UDC have consistently provided an extremely professional, efficient and reliable service. the team demonstrate a strong commitment to delivering work to a high standard, with particular attention to health and safety, safeguarding people and maintaining a well-managed working environment.

communication is clear and responsive, and any issues that arise are addressed promptly and effectively.

throughout our experience of working with UDC, they have demonstrated a proactive and solutions-focused approach, strong organisation and a genuine commitment to meeting the needs of the client. their staff are courteous, knowledgeable and dependable, and projects are managed with care and professionalism.

we have been very satisfied with both the quality of their work and the level of customer service provided. we would have confidence in working with UDC again and would be happy to consider them for future projects.”