This £5.8 million project delivered a significant upgrade to Bodmin College’s facilities.
The centrepiece is a new L-shaped teaching block constructed on a challenging sloping site, providing four general classrooms, two IT suites, a staff base, and associated amenities. The lightweight steel frame structure is clad with Forticrete blockwork and a robust Equitone rainscreen system, ensuring durability and cost-effectiveness.
To support curriculum realignment, existing IT rooms in the Bell Building were converted into state-of-the-art science laboratories, while the Harleigh Building was reorganised to consolidate English and Maths into dedicated zones. The dining hall was extended with a two-storey addition to accommodate increased student numbers.
Maintaining uninterrupted learning was a priority: temporary classrooms were installed during construction, and all works were carefully phased to keep the school fully operational with minimal disruption to teaching, utilities, and safety systems.
Sustainability was at the heart of the design. A fabric-first approach, combined with mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) and a roof-mounted photovoltaic array, supports Cornwall Council’s net-zero carbon targets. Advanced 3D thermal modelling assessed energy performance, overheating risk, and daylight levels, while biodiversity net gain was achieved through extensive new planting around existing mature trees.
Accessibility improvements included new circulation routes, a platform lift, disabled parking, and secure cycle storage.
