Kier has been appointed as the main contractor for the redevelopment of Upton-by-Chester High School, a flagship project under the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme.
A new three-storey secondary school will be built on the existing campus’ playing fields off Long Lane, replacing outdated facilities originally constructed in the 1960s and 1970s.
Once the new building is complete, the majority of the current school structures will be demolished and replaced with playing fields, with one building to be refurbished for use as a sixth form.
Designed by AHR Architects, the new 138,800 sq ft school will accommodate up to 1,845 students and 175 staff, including dedicated sixth form spaces. The building will feature more than 40 general teaching rooms, science labs, activity studios, a library, and specialist classrooms for music and design technology, as well as an additional special educational needs (SEN) unit for pupils from Dorin Park Special School.
Sustainability is central to the project, which will include a green roof integrated with solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and expanded cycle storage increasing capacity from 125 to 230 spaces. The design also includes an animal farm, reflection garden, and a specially designed SEN garden, contributing to a more inclusive and environmentally conscious learning environment.
Sarah Morton, regional director for Kier Construction North & Scotland, said: "We are proud to be delivering a modern, inspiring and sustainable school for the Upton-by-Chester community. This redevelopment will not only enhance the educational experience for current students but will serve future generations for years to come."
Lee Cummins, headteacher at Upton-by-Chester High School said: "It’s fantastic to see the construction work starting on the site. This significant milestone marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the school’s history. We look forward to working in partnership with Kier over the next three years as the project progresses, creating a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the needs of 21st-century education."
The Department for Education (DfE) has praised Kier’s approach during the enabling works phase, awarding the team a 10/10 client satisfaction rating for its collaborative working and ability to achieve contract award to programme on this large and complex project.
A DfE spokesperson said: "Every child deserves a safe, high-quality classroom where they can focus on learning. After years of neglect, too many children are being taught in school buildings that are in poor condition, and that simply isn't good enough.
“We are thrilled that work has begun on Upton-by-Chester High School to build a new school and specialist classrooms that students can not only feel proud of, but that meets the needs of all its students now and in the future.
“Through our Plan for Change we are investing in the future, with almost £20 billion for the School Rebuilding Programme through to 2034-35 - rebuilding over 500 schools across England with 250 additional schools to be selected in the next two years."
Construction is expected to take approximately three years, with phased delivery ensuring minimal disruption to learning throughout the build.
