The Brief

Initially constructed as part of the Building Schools for the Future programme (BSF) which opened as a new provision in 2012 for 1,250 pupils, Sirius Academy North has continued to increase in popularity over the years, creating the need to expand the school to accommodate a further 150 students.

The Solution

Esteem worked with supply partners Geo Houlton to coordinate the design and delivery of a new two-storey extension that would blend seamlessly into the existing school.

As a uniquely shaped building, collaborative working between Esteem, Hull City Council and the Academy was key throughout to ensure the designs and functionality of the new extension not only increased capacity but improved the flow and overall internal circulation between both buildings.

As the Council’s pre-procurement partner, it was also Esteem’s responsibility to ensure the extension was delivered to budget, to scope, and in line with the Council’s requirements to deliver an education facility in line with Department of Education standards.

Working on a tight programme of development and delivery in a challenging and difficult market the project was successfully handed over to accommodate the increased pupil numbers at the beginning of the new academic year.

The Results:

The unique star-shaped school has now been extended with a two-storey building which includes;

  • x6 general purpose classrooms to seat 30 students
  • 8m activity studio for trampolining, aerobics, dance, table tennis and circuits, including a sound system and mirrored wall / ballet barre
  • 2-person staff office, plus small 1:1 meeting space
  • Shared classroom storage, PE storage and a cleaner’s store on both floors
  • Additional toilets
  • PLANT room
  • Extension and heating of existing four seasons dining area to enable the space to accommodate 150 students in total
  • Creation of corridor in former first floor fitness area to enable better use of staircase near the sports hall and improve circulation flows around the building

Externally, the carpark has been extended, the playground resurfaced, and the planting of wildflowers and landscaping has created more welcoming surroundings.