Penarth Learning Community

Key facts & challenges

Summary

The award winning Penarth Learning Community is a key part of Vale Of Glamorgan's 21st Century Schools Investment Programme, merging existing schools and also providing a Special Educational Needs facility including a 19-bed respite centre. Siniat worked with architects, HLM, main contractor Bouygues UK and sub-contractors M&P Contractors and Neath Dry Lining to develop and deliver an innovative specification and final build. With the brief to create an exceptional learning environment but within a tight timescale, Siniat supplied its Megadeco, Pregybel and Metal systems to meet these demands.

Sector

Education

Project Value

£48 M

Client

Vale of Glamorgan Council

Contractor

Bouygues UK

Subcontractor

M & P Contractors Wales Ltd/ Neath Dry Lining

Location

Penarth, Wales, UK

Country

UK

Installation Description

"A key part of the build process was being able to combine an attractive learning environment with one that can withstand heavy footfall, all within tight timescales. Siniat's GTEC Megadeco system has been a key part of meeting these demands, offering us a complete package solution in a single board."

Installation

The main challenge was co-locating 5 schools including Special Educational Needs (SEN) facilities into one building, providing full inclusivity whilst maintaining the day to day individual requirements of both mainstream and SEN areas. This was not only ensuring the design solutions enhanced the learning environment but resolving fire, acoustics and durability requirements. Siniat's Architectural Specification Manager Chris Norris worked with HLM Architects to develop and establish a robust set of wall types and systems. In addition, the build was also aiming to achieve BREEAM accreditation. Siniat [Megadeco](https://www.siniat.co.uk/en-gb/products-and-systems/products/internal-boards/impact-resistance-security-performance/megadeco-board/) used to create an 8m curved and leaning feature wall in the entrance atrium

Quote from

Adam Reilly, Senior Site Manager Bouygues UK

Impact

“We have worked hard to embed the new design into the community and reduce the visual impact of this large building. We were thrilled when the project won 'Project of the Year' and also the 'Integration & Collaborative Working' Award at the prestigious Constructing Excellence Awards 2015, This project was a unique opportunity to realise both strategic and end user aspirations providing a community based facility for lifelong learning, and is a testament to everyone's hard work."

Quote from

Gareth Woodfin, Associate