In later date of 2013 MTX Contracts were awarded the contract to design and manufacture Ashmole Academy’s new flagship 6th form centre. From the outset the aim was to produce a vibrant, modern environment for students entering higher and further education who would be using the building daily as their main base for studies and relaxation. The building would also cater for an influx in additional students numbers and increased their current 6th form capacity from 150 to 320 pupils.
The building comprises of entrance lobby area with access to 1st floor via staircase or platform lift, ground floor lounge and seating area, 2 no staff offices, toilet facilities and a in house café catering to staff and pupils. The 1st floor area is a state of the art electronic library/study area with 3 staff offices and servers room. The finishes within the building are bright and specifically designed around the brief to instil a sense of place for all users of the facility.
The building and sub structure too have been specially designed for this project and take into account the many challenge’s this site presented. The piled foundations and ground beams were designed to also incorporate the ground floor slab and was designed to take the module sections which were delivered to site without floors. The slab was created with pockets and a perimeter shelf to take the steel frame sections and columns. Once mated to the foundations the building was ready to be fitted out on the ground floor whilst the 1st floor concrete floor was being poured. This method provided many programme advantages with fits-out works commencing almost immediately after the installation was complete.
The installation was completed during the week and over a three day period and all whilst the school remained fully operational to pupils and staff. The location of the school within a residential area, meant that meticulous planning was needed to ensure that the vehicles carrying the modules could be delivered safely and without impedance. As such MTX successfully closed of a number of residential roads to ensure this took place and with minimal disruption to road users and residents alike.
Internally the ground floor main area has been finished with all mechanical and electrical services left on show along with the steel framework of the modules. This has created a modern, industrial look which has been further complemented with additional features such as feature walls, a reclaimed brick wall and suspended lighting of various types.
The project has been a great success and entered into service at the beginning of the new school term in 2014. The project was completed in just 25 weeks onsite.
