The Project
Elite Systems was awarded this contract through a competitive tender process to design and build a modular nursery for Ysgol Ifor Bach Primary School in Abertridwr, Caerphilly, South Wales. The project required a customised solution to support the school’s expansion while ensuring minimal disruption to daily activities.
The building was constructed using five modules, each measuring 10.2 x 3.3 meters, resulting in a total floor area of 168.3 m². This tailored solution was made possible through our bespoke design approach, allowing us to create a structure that precisely met the project’s requirements.

Technical details of the building
General superstructure – The superstructure was a single storey hybrid timber/steel frame, with a 25-year structural warranty.
External walls – Plastic coated steel with vertical timber cladding sections, a modern aesthetic while being low-maintenance.
Roof – Warm deck roof, EPDM roof cover, also comes with a 25-year warranty, guaranteeing long-term reliability and peace of mind.
Ceiling finish – 600 x 600 tiles in white T-section grid with black shadow batten, provides a modern, clean look with improved acoustics, better lighting reflection, and easy maintenance access.
Internal walls – Foil backed plasterboard, double boarded and fully decorated in the client’s chosen colour, ensuring a high-quality, personalised finish.
Floor coverings – Vinyl wood comfort, the look and feel of wood while offering enhanced comfort underfoot and noise reduction.
Permeable playground – The permeable surface allows rainwater to soak through, preventing flooding and encouraging natural water management while maintaining a safe play environment.
Bio-retention area – A bio-retention area was constructed to filter rainwater on-site. This sustainable feature helps improve water quality by filtering pollutants from stormwater runoff and reduces the strain on local drainage systems, supporting environmental responsibility.
Canopy – A canopy was included in the design. Offering shelter and protection from the elements, creating a welcoming outdoor space for students and staff while enhancing the building’s functionality.
Permanent Fencing Around the Building – Ensures long-term security and safety for both the school and the building.
Low-Level Sinks – Designed for accessibility and ease of use, these sinks promote independence for children and individuals with limited mobility
Tiled Splashback to Kitchen Area – Provides a durable, water-resistant surface that is easy to clean. This feature replicates the style and functionality of a traditional build, offering both practicality and aesthetic appeal.
Challenges and solutions
The site presented some unique challenges due to its location on a natural hillside. To address these challenges, Shanco Contracts, our groundworks partner, implemented a number of innovative solutions:
- Site preparation- A reduced dig was performed to create a level platform for the modular units.
- Retaining wall- A 100-meter blockwork retaining wall was constructed to ensure the stability of the hillside and the adjacent playground.
- Service integration- new service ducts were installed to connect the modular building to the school’s existing utilities, ensuring seamless integration with the school’s infrastructure.
- Drainage system- A new foul water drainage system was installed and connected to the school’s existing system.
“Working with Ysgol Ifor Bach was an exciting challenge, particularly with the site’s hillside location. Our bespoke modular solution not only met the school’s expansion needs but also enhanced the learning environment without disrupting daily activities. By using a tailored approach, we integrated sustainable features like permeable surfaces and bio-retention areas, ensuring the school benefits from a long-lasting, eco-friendly building. I’m proud of how this project came together to create a space that’s both functional and sustainable.”
– Jason Bowker, Commercial Director at Elite Systems
The Results
The completion of the modular nursery at Ysgol Ifor Bach Primary School marked a significant achievement in providing a high-quality, custom-designed facility to support the school’s expansion. Elite Systems successfully delivered a building that not only met the specific requirements of the school but also integrated seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The modular structure provided much-needed additional space while maintaining minimal disruption to daily activities at the school.
The innovative approach to site preparation and the construction of the retaining wall ensured the building’s stability, even on the challenging hillside location. Additionally, the sustainable features, such as the permeable playground and bio-retention area, enhanced the project’s environmental responsibility.
Overall, the project demonstrates Elite Systems’ ability to deliver tailored, efficient, and sustainable modular solutions that enhance the educational environment and contribute to the long-term success of its clients.
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