Wates Construction has begun work on the third and final teaching block at Coundon Court Secondary School in Coventry.
The milestone was celebrated with a ground‑breaking event, bringing together project partners including representatives from Wates Construction, the Department of Education, Coundon Court School and Mace, to recognise the significant progress achieved on this major transformation programme and the continued delivery of a modern, inclusive learning environment for pupils and staff.
Wates Construction was appointed by the Department for Education (DfE) to deliver extensive demolition and new‑build works as part of the DfE’s 10‑year School Rebuilding Programme.
Following the demolition of four redundant teaching blocks, two new teaching buildings have been built and are already in use. The start of construction on the third and final teaching block represents significant progress towards the entire school being completed and ready to serve 1,800 pupils, including those with special educational needs.
Throughout the programme, Wates Construction has worked closely with the school community to ensure the works are delivered safely and with minimal disruption to learning. A robust logistics strategy and a carefully planned phased delivery have allowed construction to progress within a live educational environment.
The new teaching facilities are being carefully integrated alongside four retained buildings and two locally listed buildings, creating an open campus that balances modern education requirements with the site’s historic character.
Respect for the site’s heritage has been central to our design approach, with care taken to enhance the locally listed Old House and Coundon Court Lodge and ensure these important buildings remain a defining feature.
Sustainability underpins every stage of this project. Set across 15.5 hectares, the development will retain most existing trees, alongside additional planting to enhance biodiversity and the natural environment.
In line with the Department for Education’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon across its estate by 2050, the new school buildings will also be net zero carbon in operation.
Stewart Forbes, Operations Director at Wates Construction, said: “The start of the final teaching block marks an important step forward in the school’s long-term transformation into a modern, sustainable and inclusive campus. Working in close partnership with the Department for Education and the school community, we are delivering exceptional education facilities that will support local children for years to come.”
