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Case Study – The Thomas Aveling School – 6th Form Refurbishment

Case Study: Refurbishment of 6th Form Common Room, IT Study and Classroom at The Thomas Aveling School  

Project Overview 

The Thomas Aveling School, part of the Beyond Schools Trust, sought to transform its outdated sixth form common and study rooms into a modern, professional environment that could better support the academic and social needs of its students. The project involved a complete redesign and fit-out, creating distinct zones for quiet study, IT access, breakout spaces, and collaborative working, all aligned with the school’s vision of a focused and future-ready sixth form provision. 

  • Location: Rochester, Kent 
  • Client: The Thomas Aveling School, Beyond Schools Trust 
  • Sector: Education 
  • Project Duration: July – August 2023 
  • Services Provided: Specification Writing, Tendering, Design & Build Coordination with Contractor, Project Management, Contract Administration, Employers Agent Duties 

 
Our Role / Services Provided 

We were appointed to manage the full refurbishment process and deliver a high-quality, fully coordinated solution within the school’s tight summer programme. Our services included: 

  • Initial site assessment and consultation with sixth form leadership 
  • Design development alongside architect and interior designer, including full specification writing. 
  • Tender and contractor appointment 
  • Design & Build coordination with selected contractor 
  • Day-to-day project management and client liaison 
  • Contract administration and programme tracking 
  • Fulfilment of Employers Agent duties through to handover 

 
Scope of Works Completed 

  • Full strip-out of the existing sixth form common and study rooms 
  • Redesign and delivery of a new interior layout supporting: 
  • Breakout and relaxation zones 
  • Collaborative and independent study areas 
  • IT desk provision 
  • A quiet study room with fixed desks and PCs 
  • Installation of all new fixtures, fittings, and furnishings 
  • Integration of M&E services to support new layouts and uses 
  • Coordination of delivery during school holidays to avoid disruption 
The Thomas Aveling School - Case Study - Refurbished sixth form learning centre with modern workstations, high chairs, and collaborative study spaces.
Open-plan study area with rows of computers, collaborative seating and flexible breakout zones.
Sixth form common room with wood panelled walls, TA6 sign, and tiered seating for group study and presentations.
CIF-funded school IT suite refurbishment with modern computers, ergonomic seating, and improved learning facilities.
Contemporary student social and study space with comfortable seating, TA6 signage, and modern lighting.
Close-up view of computer workstations arranged along a bench with stools.
A classroom with computer desks around the walls and white circular tables in the middle of the room.

Results & Outcomes 

  • Completed on time within the school’s critical summer holiday window 
  • Transformed environment supporting both academic focus and student wellbeing 
  • Improved flexibility and functionality of space for different modes of study 
  • Enhanced visual and practical appeal to prospective sixth formers 
  • Positive feedback from students, staff, and senior leadership