Darwin Group commence work on site at state-of-the-art science block for high school in Hereford

Modular construction specialist, Darwin Group (@darwingroup_ltd) has started on-site to deliver a brand-new education building for John Kyrle High School in Ross-on-Wye (@JohnKyrleHigh), Herefordshire.

The modern, three-storey science block covers 871m² and will house six specialist science laboratories using modern methods of construction.

Following a rise in pupils, due to increasing demand from families outside the traditional catchment area and residential developments, Darwin Group has already delivered three other buildings for the school, with the latest project built on the former sports field.

After 30 years of delivering first-class education builds, Darwin Group’s in-house team is highly experienced in delivering buildings within a live school environment. Large parts of the project will be delivered off-site, and the team will work closely with the staff at John Kyrle throughout the delivery to ensure minimal disturbance to staff and pupils.

The use of modern methods of construction allows for efficient use of materials, reduces delivery times, and provides better budget predictability compared to traditional building techniques. 

Darwin Group has worked closely with the school on a design which is practical, high-quality and aesthetically fits within the existing school campus. The modular design can also be easily reconfigured or extended should the needs of the building develop over time ensuring that the investment in the space has greater longevity.

In addition to delivering the build, Darwin will also install a full internal fit out of gas and electric supplies to the labs to ensure that they are fit for modern science education.

Charles Pierce, Managing Director of Darwin Group, said, “We are very excited to continue our relationship with John Kyrle school to deliver another modular build for the growing campus. It’s a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with the school to allow them to take on more pupils from the area, providing a state-of-the-art science facility. The team is really excited to be back on campus and look forward to bringing the designs to life.”

Nigel Griffiths, Headteacher of John Kyrle School, said: “I am once again, delighted with the work undertaken by Darwin. While this was the school’s third major project with the company, it was the first run in partnership; in this instance with Herefordshire local authority.

“Representatives from Darwin worked closely with school leaders and local authority officers to ensure all parties had their requirements met. The school and the local authority look forward to the project being completed to the usual high quality associated with Darwin, on time and on budget.”