Exeter College – Centre for Maths, Science and Computing

Location
Exeter, Devon
Client
Kier Group
Value
£4.75m
Completion
2015

Higher education facilities with panoramic views across the city

In September 2013, Stride Treglown were asked by Exeter College to look at the feasibility of providing a series of maths, science and computing specialisms within a 1950’s four-storey office building. To fulfil the College’s aim to be the regional destination for post-16 maths and science, we have designed a new Centre for Maths, Science and Computing. Following the approval of ‘change of use’ and ‘principal planning’ applications, the construction was underway.

Located in Exeter city centre, the new facility educates 16-19 year olds. From teaching laboratories and traditional classrooms to forensic science suites with designated ‘crime scenes’, the building provides state-of-the-art learning resources. Alongside a computing suite, student advice hub and learning resource centre, the rear of the building hosts a newly constructed extension to infill the existing loading bay; this provides students with additional social or break-out space for downtime.

The project is ambitious but a priority for the College. It combines a complex mix of new build extension at ground and fourth floor, the construction of a new principal stair case and lift at the centre of the plan, extensive demolition works, recladding and fit outs and a completely new mechanical and electrical installation to bring the building up to current, energy efficient standards.

A ‘technical aesthetic’ will be used throughout to connect students with the building science around them. The highlights of the facility include panoramic views over Exeter city centre from fourth floor teaching laboratories. The ground floor public spaces benefit from uplifting and generous ceiling heights.

“I have been around many buildings in my time and this is fantastic. What you have done is incredible, and you have done it on an incredibly small budget. For the future of the people of this region there’s nothing more important than education, and this college absolutely typifies that through this development. The world is changing and what people need is skills, and that’s exactly what this centre is providing, particularly in the science and maths area.”

Sir Steve Smith, Vice Chancellor of the University of Exeter

“The dedicated and easily accessible crime scene with blood splatter wall makes the logistics of delivering these modules so much easier and more enjoyable for the students.

We have subject-specific areas which are dedicated to particular courses whilst also being flexible. There is a range of learning environments to meet a range of learning needs. The care and attention which has gone into the detail of the design means everything is a joy to use and just works efficiently.

James, Biology and Applied Science Teacher