SHERBOURNE FIELDS SEND SCHOOL, COVENTRY

Alcema was appointed as Principal Contractor under a JCT Design & Build contract to deliver this major new-build and refurbishment project at Sherbourne Fields SEND School in Coventry. The works were undertaken whilst the school remained fully operational. Being an all-age specialist SEND school, this required careful planning, close collaboration and robust safeguarding measures throughout.

The project comprised the construction of a striking new two-storey classroom building containing nine classrooms and associated ancillary accommodation, linked to the existing Sixth Form. In parallel, Alcema delivered the full refurbishment of the existing Sixth Form facilities and a complete strip-out and refurbishment of the live commercial kitchen, all while maintaining uninterrupted school operations

From mobilisation, Alcema adopted a highly collaborative approach, working closely with the client, design team and school representatives. A significant number of client-led design changes were introduced during the project, including the late addition of a life safety sprinkler system. Through proactive coordination and rapid redesign, these changes were successfully incorporated with minimal impact on programme. Particular emphasis was placed on safeguarding and segregation, with clear separation between construction and live school areas, controlled access arrangements and continuous supervision where interfaces were unavoidable.

Delivering the works within this live, wholly, SEN school presented unique logistical and operational challenges. Sherbourne Fields operates from a single access point serving pupils, staff, emergency services and, for the project duration, construction traffic. Alcema carefully managed, through the appointment of a full-time banksman, all vehicle movements and deliveries, coordinating closely with the school to avoid peak drop-off and pick-up periods. Additional considerations included absolute level access across temporary works, to enable safe wheelchair access, longer peak periods due to specialist transport requirements, and daily liaison with school staff to ensure activities were planned around pupil needs.

The works were carefully phased to align with the school calendar, with the Sixth Form and commercial kitchen refurbishments completed during school holiday periods to avoid disruption. Despite unforeseen conditions and additional scope, the project was completed on time and in line with the client’s requirements.

The completed development delivers a modern, inclusive learning environment designed to support the school’s future needs. Sustainability measures include air source heat pumps, roof-mounted solar PV panels, underfloor heating, natural ventilation and a fully integrated building management system, reducing operational energy consumption and whole-life costs. Alongside the physical works. Alcema delivered a strong social value programme, engaging pupils across all key stages through multiple tailored construction-focused learning sessions, which were extremely well received by both staff and students.

‘I wanted to thank you and your team personally for all the hard work you have put into delivering social value, which has benefitted a number of children, schools, communities and local businesses’.

Nayna Parekh, Business Development Advisor, Coventry City Council