Kier Stoke refurbishes James Brindley Science College

As part of the BSF programme in Stoke-on-Trent, James Brindley Science College will close at the end of August and become the Ormiston Horizon Academy on the same site. The Academy is due to open in September in the existing school before it moves into a new building on the same site in 2013.

Kier Stoke, a partnership between Kier Building Maintenance and Stoke-on-Trent City Council, has completed an installation of new facilities at James Brindley Science College, Chell. The environmental improvement works, which formed part of Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Building Schools for the Future (BSF) scheme, included equipping the college with a new ICT room and an external dining area as it begins its transformation into an academy.

Kier Stoke also carried out refurbishment works on two science laboratories, toilet facilities and the reception area; and decorated and added new lighting to the school’s main hall over half term. The work has changed the look of the existing building before students move into the new academy building in 2013.

Kier Stoke partnership manager, Mick Fallon, has been heading up the project: “We’ve worked closely with the school, the designers and Stoke-on-Trent City Council to ensure we delivered to the very tight deadline. We’ve had to be flexible in the way we work to ensure as little disruption as possible to the students, and as a result we’ve been working out of school hours where possible, including during school holidays.”

Stoke-on-Trent City Council BSF project director, Tracy Penrose, said: “Kier Stoke has been invaluable in enabling us to complete these works to a very short deadline. I’m sure the pupils of the new Ormiston Horizon academy will notice a real difference with their new and renovated facilities.”

Principal designate Rod Hughes said: “This investment into the existing school buildings is an important step in the academy process, ensuring that students have access to improved facilities as soon as possible.”