Little Reddings

The new Little Reddings Primary School in Hertfordshire is a testament to modern, sustainable construction, delivered through the national Department for Education (DfE) School Rebuilding Programme. This replacement 2FE primary school, accommodating 459 pupils, stands as a prime example of efficient and environmentally conscious building practices. The school was designed by ATP Architects and constructed by Morgan Sindall using the Streif's timber frame system for main structure of the building.

Little Reddings Primary School comprises two storeys and a gross internal area of 2,525m². Its external finishes feature a brick-clad ground floor and a rendered first floor, topped with an innovative Bio Solar Roof that combines a green roof with solar panels. The site includes a new 34-space car park and two football pitches, built over the footprint of the old school building. Inside, the school offers 812 square metres of classroom space, distributed across 14 classrooms, a hall, a studio and practical room, a creche, and dedicated special educational needs space.

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and Sustainability:

The project used modern methods of construction, with the majority comprising prefabricated floor, roof, and wall components from Streif. This approach facilitated the creation of large format, high-value components incorporating factory-fitted sub-assemblies such as windows and doors. Streif’s combination of meticulous design and prefabrication ensures exceptional quality control, maintained through full 3D CAD CAM design, advanced industrial woodworking and production table technology, a skilled labour force, and rigorous third-party auditing.

A cornerstone of the new school’s design is its strong environmental credentials. By primarily using timber for the main structure, the building operates at net zero in operation, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices and reduced environmental impact. The integration of a bio-solar roof further enhances its energy efficiency and contributes to a greener footprint.

Collaborative Delivery and Future Implications:

This new school is a showcase for successful delivery through national programmes. The efficient construction timeline and the use of off-site manufacturing highlight the benefits of collaborative approaches in achieving high-quality, sustainable educational facilities within challenging timeframes.

Key Project Data:

Client: Department for Education
Main Contractor: Morgan Sindall
Architects: ATP Architects
Location: Bushey, Herts
Building Type: 2FE Primary School, Replacement School
Capacity: 459 Pupils
Storeys: 2
Gross Internal Area: 2,525m²
External Finishes: Brick Clad Ground Floor, Rendered First Floor
Roofing: Bio Solar Roof (Green Roof with Solar Panels)
Site Features: New 34-space car park, two football pitches (over the footprint of the old building)
Internal Space: 812 square metres of classroom space across 14 classrooms, a hall, studio and practical room, a creche and dedicated special educational needs space.