The Walnuts (Hazeley) School

Client

Milton Keynes Council

Project Overview

Following a competitive tender process, Milton Keynes Council appointed FSG to undertake the SEND Capital Project at The Walnuts School, Hazeley. The project involved the remodelling and internal alteration of existing bedroom accommodation on the first and second floors of the Residential Block to create new classrooms, a library, meeting rooms, toilets, and kitchen facilities. The works also included full redecoration and replacement of floor coverings to modernise and enhance the learning environment.

Duration & Scale

The project was awarded in late June 2020, with mobilisation commencing swiftly to start works on 13th July — one week before the end of the school term. FSG completed the works within an ambitious fixed deadline of 1st September 2020, ensuring the school was ready for the new academic year. Despite unexpected challenges in the demolition phase, the project was successfully completed one week ahead of schedule.

Scope of Works

The project encompassed extensive internal alterations and service upgrades, including:

• Remodelling of first and second-floor residential areas into classrooms, library, and staff facilities.
• Electrical design and full re-wire, including lighting, ring main, and fire alarm alterations.
• Relocation and installation of drainage runs for new toilets and kitchen facilities.
• Fire detection upgrades, including keypad and swipe pad access to entrance doors.
• Complete redecoration, installation of new blinds, sensor lighting, and pin/white boards in each classroom.
• Kitchen fit-out with water filtration functionality integrated into taps.

Challenges & Solutions

During the demolition phase, it was discovered that the internal walls, originally thought to be lightweight concrete, were in fact reinforced concrete block. This required adjustment to the demolition strategy and extended the programme from four days to two weeks. To minimise disruption to the occupied ground floor classrooms, all rubble was safely removed through first-floor windows via a temporary staircase to the flat roof. FSG’s Project Manager, Andy Ball, restructured the schedule to allow multiple trades to work concurrently around demolition areas while adhering to social distancing and strict health and safety measures. This proactive approach ensured the project still finished ahead of schedule.

Health & Safety Management

Throughout the works, FSG liaised closely with the Principal Designer to update the Construction Phase Plan and associated risk assessments and method statements. Fire stopping was carried out on all penetrations and 50-50 points by trained in-house operatives under daily supervision. A BAFE-registered engineer was appointed to oversee and complete all works relating to the fire detection system, ensuring full compliance with safety regulations.

Product Specification & Finishes

The completed areas were finished to a high standard, providing a durable and modern learning environment. Finishes included sensor-controlled LED lighting, custom blinds, durable flooring, and high-quality teaching aids such as pin and white boards. The kitchen areas were equipped with modern fittings, including taps with integrated water filtration systems to improve hygiene and usability.

Why Milton Keynes Council Chose FSG

FSG was selected for their proven ability to deliver complex education-based refurbishment projects under strict time constraints. Their proactive communication, adaptability, and strong management ensured the project’s timely delivery, minimal disruption to the school, and an exceptional quality finish. The successful completion ahead of schedule reinforced FSG’s reputation for reliability and precision in public sector education projects.