Sheffield, S10 2NS
Birkdale School – Lab refurbishment
Laboratories that Enhance the Quality of Teaching
Birkdale School is a prestigious independent school for boys aged 4-18, located in the vibrant city of Sheffield, South Yorkshire.
The school prides itself on creating an environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. Central to Birkdale’s educational philosophy are its small class sizes, which allow for more focused, personalised attention and create a supportive learning atmosphere.
The school encourages a culture of curiosity and independent thinking, where students are motivated to challenge conventional ideas and take ownership of their learning. Expert teaching staff deliver a carefully tailored curriculum, ensuring each student receives guidance suited to their individual needs and potential. Through this approach, Birkdale aims to develop well-rounded young men who are not only academically accomplished but also confident, self-motivated learners equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
CONTACT & MORE
The brief
In 2017, as part of Birkdale School’s ongoing commitment to providing state-of-the-art educational facilities, the school initiated a plan to modernise its science department, recognising the need for upgraded, contemporary learning spaces. The existing Chemistry, Biology, and Physics laboratories were identified as areas requiring significant refurbishment to meet the evolving demands of modern science education. To achieve this, Birkdale approached Innova to design and provide a comprehensive proposal for the full turnkey renovation of these key science spaces.
Following a competitive tender process focused on design and cost, Innova was appointed to deliver the state-of-the-art laboratories, providing advanced facilities for students and teachers to foster engagement and excellence in science education.
The new state-of-the-art labs will ensure the quality of teaching is enhanced and that students’ continue to take initiatives in their learning.
The solution
The old laboratories have been completely overhauled and now feature a ‘Wing’ layout, which supports a flexible environment for both theory and practical work. Every pupil faces the front of the room, the teacher can circulate freely, providing a more collaborative approach to learning.
A teachers demo area provides the perfect platform for demonstrations to take place.
To help Birkdale further maximise the space available in each lab, both perimeter benching and the work benches were fitted with storage, providing students with instant access to equipment when setting up science experiments.
Turnkey services
- Demolition & Strip Out
- Minor Building Works
- New Flooring Installation
- Electrical Works
- Plumbing Services
- Gas installations
- Decoration
Durable, low-maintenance worksurface such as Velstone solid surfaces ensure the new laboratories remain both long-lasting and visually appealing. This choice of materials gives the science department a sleek, modern look with a timeless quality, creating an environment designed to inspire future generations of scientists.
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