Project

South Wolds Academy Sixth form and admin centre

Written by Kelly Gabe | Nov 14, 2025 1:36:44 PM

Project Brief

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, schools face the constant challenge of adapting their facilities to meet growing demands. South Wolds Academy, a forward-thinking institution committed to providing the best possible learning environment for its students, recognised the need for a significant upgrade to its sixth form and administrative facilities.

This case study explores how Elite Systems, a leader in modular construction for the education sector, partnered with South Wolds Academy to create a state-of-the-art, sustainable, and future-proof facility that not only meets current demands but sets a new standard for educational spaces.

The project showcases the power of innovative design, sustainable practices, and collaborative problem-solving in delivering a building that enhances the educational experience, supports administrative efficiency, and contributes positively to the environment. Through this case study, we’ll delve into the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the remarkable outcomes achieved, demonstrating how modular construction can revolutionise educational infrastructure projects.

Elite Systems secured the project through a successful tender process, delivering a full turnkey solution encompassing extensive groundworks, Building Control Application, and the design, manufacture, and installation of a truly bespoke building.

The cutting-edge facility includes:

  • Common Room
  • 4 classrooms
  • IT Suite
  • Group Room
  • Various administration spaces

Our in-house design team collaborated closely with the client’s architect to ensure the final design complied with relevant Building Bulletins, creating a best-in-class educational environment. The contemporary design not only attracts new students but also provides current students with a positive and purposeful learning atmosphere, enabling them to achieve peak academic performance.

 

 

Our Approach

Elite Systems’ extensive planning and risk mitigation strategies were crucial to the project’s success:

Working on a live school site:

  • Established a secure, separate site entrance to minimise disruption to school operations.
  • Coordinated deliveries to avoid peak drop-off and pick-up times.
  • Ensured all staff were DBS checked to maintain safeguarding standards.

Ground conditions:

  • Developed strategies to manage potential flooding due to clay soil and surface runoff.
  • Installed a large attenuation tank and pumping station to prevent future flooding issues.

Design adaptation:

  • Collaborated with the client’s architect to modularise the original H-shaped building concept while maintaining key design elements like Trespa cladding, hidden guttering, and large curtain walling areas.

Our building solution

Elite Systems developed a bespoke modular building solution to meet South Wolds Academy’s specific needs, combining efficiency, sustainability, and design excellence.

Key features:

  • Multifunctional spaces: The new facility includes a Common Room, 4 classrooms, IT Suite, Group Room, and a range of administration spaces.
  • Contemporary design: The building’s modern aesthetic helps attract new students and creates a positive learning environment.
  • Sustainability: The facility achieved an EPC rating of A+ and net zero status, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility.
  • Accessibility: A platform lift ensures the facility is accessible to all.
  • Inclusivity: Gender Neutral WC facilities help create a truly inclusive environment.

Modular construction

  • 26 steel-framed modules: Precision-engineered and fabricated off-site in our controlled factory environment.
  • Rapid on-site assembly: The modular approach significantly reduced on-site construction time, minimising disruption to school activities.
  • Quality control: Factory-based production ensured consistent high quality across all building elements.

Structural design

  • Two-storey configuration: Maximised space utilisation while maintaining a compact footprint.
  • Open-plan areas: Flexible spaces to accommodate various learning and administrative functions.
  • Strong foundations: Designed to handle the clay soil conditions and potential surface water issues.

Exterior’s features

  • Trespa cladding: High-performance, weather-resistant panelling system providing durability and a modern aesthetic.
  • Large curtain walling: Maximised natural light and created a visually striking facade.
  • Hidden guttering system: Improved aesthetics and reduced maintenance requirements.
  • Pitched roof design: Complemented the existing school architecture while providing optimal space for solar panel installation.

Interior specifications

  • Acoustic performance: Enhanced insulation and sound-dampening materials to create an optimal learning environment.
  • Flexible partitioning: Allows for easy reconfiguration of spaces as needs change.
  • High-quality finishes: Durable, low-maintenance materials suitable for a busy educational setting.
  • Integrated IT infrastructure: Future-proofed cabling and connectivity solutions throughout the building.

Sustainability features

  • 57 kWp solar panel system: Roof-mounted array to generate clean electricity on-site.
  • High-performance insulation: Exceeding building regulations to minimise heat loss.
  • Energy-efficient lighting: LED fixtures with occupancy and daylight sensors.
  • HVAC system: State-of-the-art heating, cooling, and ventilation for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
  • Water conservation: Low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting system.

Site-specific solutions

  • 48 cubic metre attenuation tank: Underground storage to manage surface water and prevent flooding.
  • Pumping station: Ensures effective water management even during heavy rainfall events.
  • Landscaping: Designed to complement the building and enhance the overall school environment.

Safety and accessibility

  • Platform lift: Ensures full accessibility to both floors for all users.
  • Fire safety systems: State-of-the-art detection and suppression systems integrated throughout.
  • Secure access control: Electronic entry system to maintain school safety protocols.

Specialised spaces

  • IT Suite: Equipped with the latest technology infrastructure to support digital learning.
  • Common Room: Designed as a multifunctional space for student interaction and events.
  • Administrative offices: Purpose-built to improve staff efficiency and collaboration. 
 

 

The Results

The South Wolds Academy Sixth Form and Administration Facility is a testament to the power of modular construction in the education sector. It provides a state-of-the-art facility that meets the needs of the school community and sets a new standard for educational spaces. By combining innovative modular construction techniques with thoughtful design and sustainable features, Elite Systems has created a space that will inspire and support students for years to come.

Key outcomes:

  • Increased capacity: The new 854 sqm facility successfully addresses the need for additional space to accommodate growing student numbers.
  • Improved learning environment: The contemporary design and purpose-built spaces promote a positive and purposeful learning atmosphere, allowing students to achieve their peak academic performance.
  • Energy efficiency: With an A+ EPC rating and net zero status, the building demonstrates exceptional energy performance.
  • Versatility: The facility seamlessly combines sixth form and administrative functions, maximising the utility of the new space.
  • Future-proof design: The modern, attractive design will help the academy continue to attract new students in the years to come.
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