Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys - Science Labs Refurbishment

Baxall secured the science refurbishment contract for client Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys (TWGSB) via negotiated tender. This D&B project marks our sixth consecutive year of working with the school, reflecting a well‑established and trusted client relationship.

Scope of Works
This latest project involved the refurbishment of Science Laboratories 2 and 3 to modernise facilities in the school’s science department while working within a constrained budget and operational school environment. The refurbishment comprised full design works and surveys (asbestos and acoustic); M&E upgrades; removal and replacement of existing curtain walling windows; installation of new laboratory furniture and fittings; creation of a new tea station for staff; and refurbishment and re-furnishing of the laboratory preparation room.

Programme and Value
We delivered the project over a tight 13-week programme. Early-stage engagement was crucial to achieving this time timeline, made possible via our existing long-term relationship with the client which allowed for collaborative design development and cost-saving strategies from the outset.

Site Access and Safety
Access to the constrained site was via an existing fire escape, with the works located at the heart of the school’s science department. During the latter part of the July summer term (pre-summer holiday), the school was live/ fully operational. To protect students and staff, we erected a full-height protective screen to mitigate noise and dust, and prevent unauthorised access to the construction area. For the second half of the programme, works continued during the school’s summer break. This provided an uninterrupted working environment and allowed seamless coordination of interfaces within communal areas, significantly reducing risk and programme pressure.

Value Engineering
The school’s limited budget required a strong focus on value engineering. One of the most significant savings was achieved by adopting a natural ventilation strategy. Carbon dioxide sensors were linked to a system that prompted window opening when elevated levels were detected, eliminating the need for a full mechanical ventilation solution and saving approximately £170,000 across the two laboratories. In addition, much of the existing mechanical and electrical infrastructure was retained where feasible. This approach balanced cost efficiency with the successful delivery of a refreshed, modern laboratory environment.

Stakeholder Engagement
Close collaboration with the client was maintained throughout the project. Daily or weekly meetings were held depending on site activities, ensuring clear communication, prompt decision-making and minimal disruption to the school’s operations.

Sustainability Measures
While full-scale low-carbon technologies were limited by budget and programme constraints, air-conditioning was installed via direct expansion (DX) units incorporating heat pump technology. This improved thermal comfort while delivering energy efficiency benefits compared to traditional systems.

Challenges and Solutions
The most significant challenge was undertaking demolition and refurbishment works while the school was fully occupied. This was successfully managed through careful programming, robust segregation measures and continuous liaison with the school.

Completion and Handover
Baxall handed over the project on time and under budget. This scheme represents the first phase of a wider phased programme to refurbish all of TWGSB’s science laboratories and builds upon the success of our previous project deliveries on behalf of the school. It further strengthens our collaborative partnership and supports the continued success of our long-term working relationship.