SKILTS SEN School, Kitts Green, Birmingham

Following on from our previous previous works with Birmingham City Council, we are to carry out the design and installation of the Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing Services on this project under the Schools Framework Scheme.

SKILTS SEN School is one of 27 Birmingham special schools. It caters for children with social, emotional and mental health needs who have an Education, Health and Care Plan, or EHCP. Currently located in Gorcott Hill, Redditch, it is set to reopen as a new £14 million purpose-built academy in East Birmingham, back within the city boundary.

Currently, the school transports children from Birmingham to Redditch; the relocation will be more convenient for the pupils, as well as financially better for the local council.

The existing site previously was the location of the old Hallmoor School building, built and opened post-war in 1952 using a concrete frame and brick cladding throughout the building which that has now been demolished.

The new school will cater for up to 140 Primary SEN children with a variety of learning and behavioural issues.

The existing SKILTS School will stay open in the meantime, and its pupils will be sensitively moved upon completion.

The new building will consist of a single storey block, with a two storey wing, comprising of 22 mixed and specialist use classrooms, a large hall space, to be used for sports and assembly functions, with a catering kitchen and dining hall.

All spaces utilise LED lighting, and will be heated by LPHW via a mixture of radiators, high level radiant panels, and LST radiators as required.

The building will be generally ventilated by hybrid mechanical ventilation fan units, providing a mixture of natural and mechanical ventilation, with natural ventilation turrets in the hall area, and dedicated mechanical supply and extract ventilation to toilet and kitchen areas.

Staff and teaching spaces will be fitted with data and small power outlets as required, with domestic water services to all sanitary and catering appliances.

The project is due to be completed in April 2021.