Construction begins on new Exmouth Community College – one of the UK’s largest schools

The building is located on Green Close and includes a new three-storey teaching block which will house a large hall with bleacher seating for drama performances.

Procured under the Government’s Department for Education capital framework as part of their priority schools building programme, this will be the ninth school delivered in Devon and Cornwall by main contractor BAM.

The new teaching block will sit at the heart of the college campus and the construction programme requires a considerable amount of planning to keep the existing buildings live whilst the demolition and new build construction is conducted.

Completion is expected for September 2023 when the college will have capacity for up to 2,850 pupils.

Project Manager for BAM Chris Scoins is leading the build, and he said: ‘Communication is key on a project like this and we have developed a close, collaborative relationship with both the client and the school to promote good working relationships.  With the successful completion of the phase one works on time we are now progressing with main construction.’

BAM has a strong track record in Devon and Cornwall dating back to 1900, creating the Royal Naval College at Dartmouth.  Currently it is delivering the new MRI suite and oncology ward at the Royal Cornwall Hospital and recently handed over a new care home and the NHS Nightingale Hospital in Exeter.

Committed to attracting new talent to the industry, this construction project aims to host a series of work experience placements as well as support one construction student on a 45-week T-level placement.

In February BAM staged a virtual call with 30 construction students from Exeter College to present the build and its phases, explore future careers and opportunities for engagement. The students explored the design and these responsibilities of those onsite.

Further information: Mark Slattery, Press and Media Manager, BAM Construct UK Ltd, T 01442 238415.