Kilpatrick ASN Modular Learning Village

Delivered on behalf of West Dunbartonshire Council, the project comprises two single-storey modular buildings, collectively providing four-classrooms, plus additional outdoor landscaping. Not only does it provide a safe and comfortable learning environment for children with additional support needs, but also allows the school to better utilise its existing spaces and workshops.

Key Stats

Modular, off-site construction
Live environment
Zero RIDDOR accidents
85% of local labour
75% of local spend
75% SME Engagement
77% SME spend
3 local jobs created

At a Glance

Client

West Dunbartonshire Council

Budget

£450k

Completion

March 2023

Location

West Dunbartonshire

Framework

SCAPE Scotland

Sector

Education

Our Approach

The Modular Learning Village was comprised of two units, each with 5 modular compartments. The 10 distinct compartments were manufactured off-site and installed on to the site via crane lift, providing the school with an additional 4 classrooms, 2 toilets and 2 storerooms.

Prior to placing the order for the cabins which would be installed, the project team engaged with the school leadership team and facilitated a visit to an existing facility to allow school staff to explore their options and ensure the cabins selected were appropriate for staff and pupil needs. Discussions also took place with school leadership team site around site safety to familiarise the school staff with the safety protocols in place.

Logistical planning was paramount to mitigate any issues in the live environment. There was one road leading in/out of the area and, to prevent disruption to the school, roadworks were planned and executed over the weekend to avoid transport issues. Similarly, the crane was positioned on the road when landing the cabins on to the site and so this took place over the weekend to avoid disruption to the school and pupils. Deliveries were scheduled around the live school day avoiding the start and end of the school day when the area would be busy with drop offs and pick ups to ensure safety remained a priority – this was communicated to and adhered to by both the project team and our subcontractors.

The biggest tool was communication. Clear communication to the education team and to the supply chain was paramount. Ensuring the live environment and presence of pupils was at the forefront of subcontractors planning and activities was key.

Forward planning was also key due to the short duration of the programme. The short duration of the project meant that there was no room for slippage and each activity has to be considered and planned for a week or two in advance to ensure proper sequencing. Any key activities were discussed with the school leadership team 1-2 weeks prior to ensure the solutions in place were appropriately timed for live environment works.