John Wallis Academy

A new build two form entry primary school including provision for up to a hundred nursery places with extensive external works at the John Wallis Academy in Ashford, Kent.

The project creates an improved learning environment for the primary pupils who were to be relocated to the new building in the grounds of the secondary school site, adjacent to the existing academy buildings. Working on an occupied site with minimal disruption to the school was an important factor to manage.

In-keeping with the existing school campus, the external elevations comprise a buff facing brick with a white render finish applied to some first-floor elevations. The nursery elevation features cedar cladding to create a warmer feel for the younger children.

To shorten the construction period the internal leaf of the external wall was constructed utilising a metsec steel framing system tied to the building’s main steel frame. Openings are fitted with aluminium casement windows and doors.