UPDATE ON RENOVATION

I’ve worked on a few projects of this scale in the last decade or so including the estates strategy, master plan and numerous developments for the Royal College of Music, as well as significant building developments for both St Paul’s Senior and Junior School; however, renovating a campus of this scale has been one of the most interesting projects I have worked on. My team and I meet the design group; incuding architects (IID), contractors (Quinn) and the project management team (Bidwells) every week in some form. With so many moving parts to the renovation project, the proactive meeting structure ensures we stay on track with the many work streams. The building remains a hive of activity; there are trades and specialists on every floor and in almost every part of the campus.

An update on the renovation project.

The Cyril Taylor Library, which will be home to science, some general teaching, a multi-use Assembly Hall and Drama department, is progressing well and is ahead of programme. The views from the upper floors of this building across London are stunning, the space lends itself really well to light and bright science and learning spaces. The fit-out of these spaces will commence in the later part of this term.

External works including new windows, a complete refurbishment and newly- at pace in the Red House. This building is at the heart of the campus and will be the home for the top years of Sixth Form. I can really see how this space will work for the older students, giving them their own home apart from the younger years, with multiple specialist learning spaces alongside social areas.

The main; listed building is both a challenge and a joy to work on! Build practices in the 1860s were a little different to the higher standards we require for a Thomas’s school. We factored additional time into our programme to allow for the building to give us some surprises though, and whilst installing new steel work into the frame of the building has been challenging, the team have worked phenomenally hard and the project remains on track. We are working with very experienced specialists who know and understand how complex projects of this scale can be. With the framework now complete, mezzanine levels removed to restore the dining hall and recital hall to their former glory and the beautiful wood-panelled library well underway, the team will get to grips with the more detailed interior work.

We can’t yet welcome parents on site, while all this activity continues - but I very much look forward to taking the ‘keys’ to the building back from the various teams in August, ready to welcome you all in September. Every facility will be brand-new and of the highest quality: it is going to be such an exciting and special place to live and learn.

Matt Nicholl, Chief Operating Officer