Cool School - Refurb Makes a Huge Difference

02 June 2015 | Updated 01 January 1970

Work on a County Durham school has resulted in a transformation in its look and function.

The £1.2 million refurbishment by Morris & Spottiswood, a fit-out contractor, was at Westlands Academy in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham.

Westlands is run by the Horizons Specialist Academy Trust and is a school for over 70 students who have social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. The trust received a grant from Education Funding Agency (EFA) to undertake the refurbishment.

The five-month project involved demolishing the east wing of the school, minus the exterior walls and completely refurbishing it. It involved fitting a new roof and classrooms as well as state-of-the-art cookery, art and science rooms. Also delivered was a full package of M & E installations. A major challenge was that the work on the building had to be undertaken while the students were in school in terms of minimal disruption and health and safety.

“Westlands School has been in need of updating for several years,” stated Pete Ewart, Westlands Academy Principal. “The positive impact that this will have for the young people who attend here will be tremendous.”

Picture: The £1.5 million refurbishment of part of Westlands Academy by Morris & Spottiswood has resulted in a significant improvement in facilities as well as the look of the building.

Article written by Mike Gannon | Published 02 June 2015