Installation of all 17 modules has been completed on the second project to be awarded to Portakabin under the Department for Education's (DfE) MMC1 framework.
The custom designed modules left the Portakabin manufacturing facility in York in convoy after being precision engineered specifically for the DfE.
Thanks to the entire school building being manufactured using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), the harsh winter temperatures didn't disrupt progress on site. While heavy groundworks and excavations were underway in Kidderminster, the modules were being completed undercover in the manufacturing facility over 165 miles away in York.
At 3.6m wide and 18.75m long, each module is larger than the standard Portakabin offering to maximise offsite fitout and meet Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) targets set by the Department for Education. Large windows maximise daylight and offer an improved teaching and learning environment for both pupils and teachers.
James Pearson, Divisional MD, Portakabin comments: "We're building Unity Academy using the largest modular platform we can which we've specifically designed with our in-house engineers and product design experts to meet the exacting requirements of today's education market.
"Not only are we reducing the impact of assembly during installation with less joints, we're also offering almost 90% less vehicle movements to site than traditional construction which cuts this project's carbon emissions considerably.
"We have the capability to deliver a factory produced concrete floor which adds solidity to our lightweight modular structure, delivers a better floor "feel" and reduces vibration performance. Any bustling school is a testament to how robust our solution is to meet the demands of an active learning environment."
Kate Brunt, CEO, The Rivers C of E Academy Trust, said: "I am delighted with the progress and quality of the Portakabin build. It was so exciting to see our classrooms being built in York and even more exciting to see them arrive on site in Kidderminster after their long journey down the motorway!"
Councillor Tracey Onslow, cabinet member with responsibility for Education at Worcestershire County Council, said: "We are pleased to see the work progressing well on these facilities and we look forward to the Unity Academy opening later this year in Kidderminster. It will add an inclusive and supportive provision to work closely with other schools in the area. The development of the new school is a great example of collaboration of Worcestershire County Council, a local Academy Trust and the DfE resulting in specifically designed facilities and learning environments, to ensure that our children and young people have the foundations set for them to go on and achieve their full potential."
The DfE Project Director has confirmed the site works on the project are progressing very well with all parties working effectively in partnership to help deliver the new build school for Summer 2023 and this is a view echoed by the DfE MMC1 Framework team.
Once complete, the school will accommodate 60 pupils, aged between four and 11 years old, supported by approximately 25 members of staff. It will provide eight classrooms plus a large hall and resource spaces and is due to complete in Summer 2023.
Source: www.portakabin.com
