Modular construction could be the key to speed up school expansions
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Most people are comfortable with bricks and mortar construction. They offer a sense of permanence and an investment in the future. However, modular construction for education, can provide a space that lasts beyond 50 years while being cost effective and purpose-built for learning.
One of the significant benefits of modular construction for schools is speed. With ever-expanding numbers now hitting schools, there is a demand for expansion of facilities at a faster rate. Proper planning can still make traditional construction practices valid, however, in a changing context of budget and educational policy, this is often not possible. Modular constructions could be the answer.
[edit] How long would a traditional school expansion take?
Depending on the size of expansion, traditional bricks and mortar construction could take between 8 months and a year. If there are unforeseen delays, this could be much longer and this does not include the time needed for planning, design and permissions required.
The most challenging part of the process is the groundworks. This can be noisy and messy. Some of this work could be done in the long summer break. However, if you do this, you risk the significant portion of construction taking place in the winter months, leading to potential delays.
Therefore, if you select a traditional school expansion, you could be looking at a whole school year of disruption. The costs incurred are financially higher, but so is the price to productivity and results. Such a project also presumes that you can live without the space you are creating for the time of its planning, design, permissions, build and finishing.
You will need to meet with the builders to talk about how to minimise disruption to your school’s everyday work and then stay involved to adapt to problems or concerns. You will need to be constantly alert to potentials concerns and raise questions immediately.
[edit] What about modular construction?
Having your building in place within 12 weeks is possible. It is possible to have much of the construction take place off-site, away from the students. It is possible to time the opening of your new modular buildings for the new school year.
A modular classroom is a permanent structure but one that could be moved if necessary. It is built to last for at least 50 years and can be designed to your specific brief. Although there are standard designs and builds of modular classrooms, it is possible to adapt this to your wishes at the design stage.
Most of the work is done off-site; therefore the build time can be quick. The frame and components are manufactured away from the school, as well as the canopy and flooring. As the classroom is being constructed away from the site, the ground works are completed. This allows for much shorter build time, with a 1st fix, cladding, 2nd fix and then handover in quick succession
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- British post-war mass housing.
- BSRIA launches Offsite Construction for Building Services topic guide.
- Construction problems avoided by using a modular approach.
- Kit house.
- Modern methods of construction.
- Modular buildings.
- Modular buildings in the educational sector.
- Off-site construction.
- Plug and play skyscrapers.
- Prefabrication.
- Student accommodation.
- Types of building.
Featured articles and news
Design and construction industry podcasts
Professional development, practice, the pandemic, platforms and podcasts. Have we missed anything?
C20 Society; Buildings at Risk List 2025
10 more buildings published with updates on the past decade of buildings featured.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation, closing 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
From project managers to rising stars, sustainability pioneers and more.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.