When it comes to engineering, the focus is on creating buildings that are safe, durable, and sustainable. Using high-quality materials like reinforced concrete and steel ensures these schools stand the test of time, while energy-efficient designs keep running costs low and the environment in mind.
Today’s schools also need to be flexible. With teaching methods constantly evolving, it’s important that schools can adapt to changing needs. Sutcliffe focuses on creating spaces that are easily reconfigured, with scalable infrastructure that grows with the community. We’re delivering schools that are built to last.
Safety and the RAAC crisis
RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) was once hailed as a modern and cost-effective building material for schools. However, over time, its weaknesses have become clear. RAAC deteriorates faster than expected, with structural failures becoming more common, especially in older buildings. This poses serious safety risks, particularly in schools where the well-being of students and staff is crucial.
In response, the UK government allocated significant funds in the 2024 Autumn Budget to address the urgent need for school repairs. Higher-quality, durable materials promise schools won’t face the same challenges as the RAAC-era buildings.
Modern schools should be built using high-strength materials like reinforced concrete and steel frames, which provide greater durability and resistance to wear and tear. These materials not only ensure safety but also offer long-term stability, reducing the likelihood of future structural issues.
Sustainability in schools
Sustainability is becoming a cornerstone of modern school design, with a strong emphasis on environmentally friendly materials, waste management, and renewable energy sources. We prioritise eco-conscious decisions at every stage, ensuring that construction for schools is functional and kind to the planet.
Using sustainable materials like recycled steel, low-carbon concrete, and timber from certified sustainable sources is standard practice. These materials help reduce the carbon footprint of school buildings while maintaining structural integrity and durability. Additionally, innovative waste management solutions are being incorporated into designs, such as recycling facilities and sustainable drainage systems (SuDS). Eco-friendly drainage solutions, such as permeable paving and rainwater harvesting systems, help manage water runoff sustainably, reducing strain on local drainage systems and contributing to a greener environment.
Building sustainable schools isn’t just about the materials we use or the energy we save – it’s about creating spaces that support both our planet and the students who’ll learn in them.
Our Education Projects
Prospect House
Sutcliffe provided civil and structural engineering services for a new single-storey SEND primary school, replacing an existing facility. The 2915m² building for 100 pupils features a hot-rolled steel frame, lightweight metal roof, and a reinforced concrete hydrotherapy pool.
Due to historic landfill and high methane levels, Sutcliffe designed piled foundations and a suspended in situ reinforced concrete ground floor slab. A bespoke gas membrane system was installed to manage ground gas, and foundations were placed directly beneath the slab to minimise contaminated land disposal.
The design included a double column arrangement at the building’s primary movement joint, necessary for the 100-metre length, and supports for hoists required by the school. The hydrotherapy pool’s reinforced concrete structure was paired with enhanced corrosion protection for exposed steelwork.
Every decision made during this project was driven by the needs of both students and staff, resulting in a state-of-the-art SEND school. The carefully considered design ensures that the facilities not only support students’ educational needs but also creates a welcoming, inclusive environment where they can thrive.
Liverpool Media Academy
The Metquarter transformation project repurposed a struggling retail centre into a state-of-the-art music teaching academy for LMA.
The Metquarter was a retail shopping centre which had been progressively losing market share to the nearby Liverpool ONE and had several empty units as a result. LMA agreed a deal with the landlord to repurpose all the retail units at first floor level to become its next music teaching academy, which was a pioneering approach to breathe new life into the building.
Sutcliffe was engaged to act as structural engineers on the project to design numerous alterations to the existing mezzanine floors to suit the new spatial requirements as designed by K2 Architects. Completed under stringent COVID-19 safety measures, the project met its deadlines and budget, delivering a sophisticated and functional new space for music education.
University of Liverpool Management School
Sutcliffe provided civil and structural engineering services for the £7.5M Management School Extension at the University of Liverpool. The project involved increasing the learning capacity by 450 places and equipping all rooms with advanced Information Technology to support enhanced educational opportunities.Working closely with the Management School, architects, and the university’s senior project manager, Sutcliffe contributed to the design and development of additional space for both students and staff.
Sutcliffe’s role included designing and detailing an in situ reinforced concrete frame for the new structure, which featured a large open-plan lecture theatre. The design of the link bridge connecting the existing building to the new extension utilised steelwork to achieve a modern aesthetic.
The completion of the University of Liverpool Management School extension marks a significant milestone in supporting the university’s growing academic community. By creating flexible, high-tech learning spaces, the project sets a new standard for modern educational environments.
Engineering solutions for the future of education
Sutcliffe’s approach to education focuses on creating adaptable, sustainable learning environments that meet both current needs and future demands. We expand capacity, integrate advanced technologies, and ensure that school upgrades are carried out with minimal disruption to daily operations. With extensive experience across a range of educational projects, from primary schools to university extensions, Sutcliffe is at the forefront of shaping the future of educational infrastructure.
If you’re interested in how Sutcliffe can support your education project, please get in touch.
