Harris Primary Academy

Project Overview

The Harris Primary Academy project involved the comprehensive refurbishment of both the building envelope and internal teaching spaces. Initially procured under a PCSA, the scope was developed into a cost-effective scheme focusing on M&E design, roofing surveys, asbestos management, and external envelope works.

The key objectives were to modernise the academy, address roofing failures, improve building performance, and deliver phased internal refurbishments — all while the school remained occupied. Works were carefully scheduled to minimise disruption during term time, with high-impact activities completed in holiday periods.

Project Scope

Development of PCSA surveys into a fully costed scheme
Roofing strategy: overlay or strip-and-replace depending on condition
Improved insulation and thermal performance (U-value upgrades)
External envelope refurbishment
Internal reconfiguration and refurbishment, including plastering, ceilings, flooring, and decorations
Full M&E upgrades including fire alarms, emergency lighting, heating pipework, and LED lighting
Fire safety improvements: compartmentation and fire doors
FFE supply and installation

Key Works Completed

Roofing Works:

Condition-led strategy: dry roofs overlaid, wet roofs stripped and replaced.
Retained vapour control layers where possible to achieve savings.
Introduced tapered insulation selectively to improve roof falls and drainage.
Scaffold erected during weekends, secured, and operated to strict school safeguarding requirements.

M&E Systems:

Installation of new L2 Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting.
Replacement of heating pipework and upgrade to LED lighting.
Provision of interactive classroom screens.
Commissioning completed phase by phase to ensure continuous functionality of life safety systems.

Internal Refurbishment:

Full replastering of classrooms where acoustic tiles and carpet had been glued to walls.
New ceilings, flooring, and decorations installed.
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FFE) installed as per schedule.

Fire Safety Upgrades:

Fire doors replaced or upgraded.
Compartmentation works carried out in line with survey findings.

Challenges

Occupied site: Roofing and internal refurbishments had to be carefully phased to allow lessons to continue with minimal disruption.
Safeguarding requirements: Operatives held enhanced DBS checks, but additional segregation measures were implemented at the Trust’s request, with access routes strictly controlled.
Complex roof conditions: Varied roof types required tailored solutions balancing technical requirements, cost savings, and programme efficiency.

Outcome

The regeneration of Harris Primary Academy delivered a modern, safe, and energy-efficient learning environment. The phased programme allowed the school to remain fully operational throughout, while cost-effective solutions unlocked additional value that was reinvested into other elements of the scheme.

The school was transformed both visually and functionally, with upgraded M&E systems, enhanced fire safety, and revitalised classrooms.

Client Testimonial

“Harris Academy are one of AMR’s biggest clients and HPAC is the flagship site within the Trust’s portfolio. The project was always going to be a challenge – a loose initial brief and an occupied tight site. M&J Group worked brilliantly with us all to develop the original scope into a deliverable project, bringing savings where possible and releasing monies for other elements. The school was truly transformed and the donation of new pupil entrance gates with the rebranded School name was the icing on the cake!” – AMR Consult