Final Project Update: Highams Park School Development

We are delighted to share the final update on our exciting collaboration with Bowmer and Kirkland at Highams Park School in London. This project marks a significant milestone for Pickerings as we continue to support the Schools Rebuilding Programme, providing high-quality modular solutions that enable uninterrupted education during major redevelopment works.

Project Overview

Pickerings was subcontracted by Bowmer and Kirkland, the main contractor responsible for the demolition of existing school buildings and the construction of a brand-new teaching block at Highams Park School. To ensure students and staff could continue teaching and learning without disruption, Pickerings was appointed to deliver a modular building solution to accommodate pupils during the demolition and reconstruction process.

Our Modular Solution

To meet the school’s needs, Pickerings supplied a total of 164 Principal modular bays, including foundation piers and above-ground service connections. Installation was carried out in three carefully managed phases:

  • Phase 1: 68 bays
  • Phase 2: 53 bays
  • Phase 3: 43 bays

The completed two-storey modular building was designed to support up to 1,411 occupants (750 on the ground floor and 661 on the first floor) and included a wide range of facilities:

  • 25 general teaching classrooms
  • 5 ICT-rich classrooms
  • Dedicated Year 12 study area with breakout zones
  • Reception and lobby
  • 23 staff offices
  • Fully equipped kitchen and food preparation area
  • Dining hall for up to 300 pupils
  • Multiple staff kitchenettes
  • Library
  • Student and staff toilets

A key design feature was the internal courtyard, made possible by our Principal modular range, which eliminated the need for connecting linkways and maximised usable internal space. Pickerings also delivered a full Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) package, ensuring the building was energy-efficient and fully compliant with building regulations.

Overcoming Site Challenges

The project presented several logistical challenges that our team successfully managed:

  • Restricted access: The school site was located down a narrow residential street. We conducted trial runs with hauliers to mitigate risks, ensuring smooth delivery without road closures or disruption to local residents.
  • Limited turning space: Phases two and three faced tight turning circles on site. Our experienced team coordinated vehicle movements precisely to maintain efficiency and safety throughout the installation.

These proactive measures allowed the project to progress smoothly, on time, and with minimal community impact.

Project Completion and Impact

We are proud to confirm that all 164 bays have now been successfully delivered, installed, and handed over to the client. The project was completed on programme at the end of August, allowing pupils to return to school after the summer break with no interruption to their learning.

The newly established temporary school building has been met with widespread approval, offering state-of-the-art facilities that promote both academic success and student well-being. Feedback from students, staff, and parents during the recent open evening was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting confidence in the quality and comfort of the new learning environment.

“The temporary accommodation provided by Pickerings has exceeded our expectations. It’s bright, functional, and a great space for our students and staff.”
— Richard Palmer, Chief Operating Officer, Highams Park School

Looking Ahead

As we conclude our work on this project, we are proud to have supported Highams Park School in maintaining its high standards of education during a period of major redevelopment. The completion of this modular facility marks a significant step toward the creation of the school’s new permanent building, which will provide enhanced learning spaces for years to come.

We would like to thank Bowmer and Kirkland for their continued partnership and the Highams Park School community for their collaboration throughout the process. Together, we’ve delivered a project that truly demonstrates the power of modular construction in supporting education and community progress.

Our Commitment to Education

At Pickerings, we believe every student deserves access to quality educational facilities, regardless of construction challenges or timelines. This project stands as a testament to our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in modular building solutions.

To learn more about our modular buildings and how they can benefit your educational institution, contact our team of specialists or request a quote here. 

You can view the full case study here.

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