Bridgend College’s new state-of-the-art STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Academy is the latest addition to its Pencoed Campus, and will allow the college to streamline and enhance its educational provision in South Wales. Procured through the SEWSCAP framework, this project is also part of Wales’ 21st Century Schools Programme.
What was delivered
The contemporary two-storey facility comprises flexible teaching and support spaces, IT provision and social areas, alongside specialist accommodation, including mechanical and electrical workshops, motor vehicle workshops and high-spec laboratories. Informal group study spaces promote collaborative learning, while shared facilities encourage cross-department interaction. The design creates a collegiate aesthetic, utilising warm tones and textures, crisp detailing and well-considered proportions.
Making it happen
Collaborative working was a key element of this project’s success. We worked closely with the college, design team, contractor and supply chain to co-design a Project Charter, outlining end user aspirations, communication channels and strategies to minimise disruption.
Use of a 3D BIM model enabled us to fully coordinate designs, and guarantee that the proposals met with the college’s exact requirements and working practices.
The project also sought to inspire students. A new work experience programme featured trade and management roles, while a mentoring programme and guest lectures gave students time with industry experts.
Our team also worked alongside staff and students to help increase bio-diversity across the Pencoed Campus, including the creation of new bird boxes.
Making a difference
The building was developed on a brownfield site within the college’s existing campus, creating major efficiencies with the sharing of services, space, and amenities, whilst modernising and improving the general environment. Demolition materials from the older buildings on the site were used in the hardcore base of the new building and the surrounding landscaping.
The building design was also developed to accommodate and retain a number of existing mature trees on site. With the obvious ecological advantages of retaining such features, the trees also play an important role in providing solar shading to the south and west façades.
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