Multipurpose building for teaching, wrap around care, conference facilities at Preston Primary

Preston Primary School, part of the Lingfield Education Trust, has a strong focus on providing an inclusive, high-quality education grounded in family values, partnership, and a child-centred approach to learning. As the school’s needs evolved, it became clear that an additional permanent building was required to support teaching provision, wrap-around care and for use as conference facilities.

The Brief

Working alongside the local authority and within the Trust’s shared governance framework, the school was seeking a building that would meet Trust standards while responding directly to the realities of a busy primary school environment. The brief was not only about adding space, but about doing so in a way that felt considered, calm, and practical for everyday use.

Key priorities included flexibility, accessibility, and sustainability, alongside a delivery programme that would minimise disruption to pupils and staff during the school term. The council formally awarded the project, and TG Escapes’ proposal was selected due to its suitability for the constrained site, the provision of a permanent building, and the quality of the design.

The Site

Preston Primary School is located on a compact site in Stockton-on-Tees, where space and access are limited. These constraints required careful planning from the outset to ensure the project could be delivered safely and efficiently without impacting the day-to-day operation of the school.

The project involved the removal of an existing temporary classroom and its replacement with a permanent structure that would sit comfortably within the school grounds. As part of the Lingfield Education Trust, it was important that the new building aligned with Trust-wide design standards while still responding to the specific character and limitations of the site.

TG Escapes’ off-site modular timber approach played a key role in addressing these challenges. By manufacturing the building off-site, the amount of activity required on the school grounds was significantly reduced, allowing the school to continue operating safely throughout the build.

The Solution

TG Escapes designed and delivered a single-classroom building using modern methods of construction (MMC), providing a permanent and high-quality learning space tailored to the school’s requirements. The design incorporated level access throughout, removing the need for a ramp and improving accessibility for pupils, staff, and visitors.

Externally, the building features natural cedar cladding, chosen to complement the surrounding environment and support a biophilic design approach. Internally, floor-to-ceiling glazing was included to maximise natural daylight, creating a calm, well-lit space suited to teaching and learning.

Groundworks commenced on 4 August, with the building completed and handed over on 23 October, two weeks ahead of programme. The construction phase was delivered in 12 weeks, reflecting effective project management and close coordination between the school, the council, and TG Escapes.

The project was delivered as a full turnkey solution, covering design, manufacture, installation, and completion. The clarity of this approach helped ensure a smooth process from start to finish and was well-received by the client.

Sustainability and Design Features

Sustainability formed an integral part of the brief, with the building designed to perform efficiently over its lifetime. Features include:

• Air source heat pumps providing low-carbon heating
• Solar panels supporting on-site renewable energy generation
• Instantaneous hot water heaters to reduce energy waste
• Floor-to-ceiling glazing to improve daylight levels and reduce reliance on artificial lighting
• Timber cedar cladding supporting a biophilic design approach
• Level access throughout the building, removing the need for a ramp and supporting inclusive, long-term use
• Net zero in operation, with A+ SBEM rating
• Offsite manufacture to reduce waste and environmental impact, with 99% of onsite waste diverted from landfill
• A 3-metre-wide walkway along the side of the building, extending usable outdoor space and supporting outdoor learning through tree planting

Outcome

The completed building provides Preston Primary School with a practical, energy-efficient classroom that supports both immediate teaching needs and longer-term estate planning. Delivered ahead of schedule and with minimal disruption, the project demonstrates how off-site construction can offer a well-considered solution for constrained school sites.

The school responded very positively to both the finished building and the delivery process, noting the clarity of the design, the quality of the internal environment, and the consistency of communication throughout the programme. Regular on-site coordination and a clear approach to handover and snagging helped ensure a smooth transition into use.

The result is a permanent addition to the school estate that aligns with Trust standards, reflects the school’s values, and provides a calm, functional learning environment designed for everyday use and long-term performance.

We asked Executive Head Sue Richardson:

Why did you want to develop additional space?

We had outgrown our current build due to expanding our SEND provision.

What made TG Escapes stand out from other providers?

Initially, the recommendation was from a trusted colleague, but once working with the team, they were so accommodating around a busy primary school.

What are the biggest benefits you have noticed for the pupils and staff?

It looks beautiful which creates a calming atmosphere. We call it Oasis it is so wonderful.