Morgan Sindall Marks Steel Signing Milestone at Selly Oak SEN School
Morgan Sindall Construction has marked a significant milestone in the delivery of Selly Oak SEN School with a steel signing ceremony, celebrating the completion of the building's structural frame.
The £12 million project will deliver a new three-storey building providing 2,117 square metres of modern learning space for pupils with special educational needs. The new facility will include purpose-built classrooms, music rooms, and libraries, alongside refurbishment works to existing school buildings.
To commemorate the successful installation of the main structure, key stakeholders gathered on Friday 28 November to sign a commemorative steel beam.
The ceremony was attended by Head Teacher Julie Eaton, Acivico Project Manager Sara Smith, Birmingham City Council Project Manager Angela Clark, School Business Development Manager Sarah Simmons and other council representatives, marking the collaborative effort driving this transformational project forward.
Procured through the CWM framework, the 74-week project commenced in July this year and is on track for completion in December 2026.
The development also includes two new modular buildings providing additional teaching spaces - a trade and horticultural building and a restorative and changing facility, plus the creation of a new roadway to improve site logistics.
The project has presented unique delivery challenges, requiring careful coordination around the daily logistics of 40-50 minibuses transporting pupils, alongside specific delivery-time restrictions appropriate for a SEN school environment.
The team also had to consider badger migration patterns when planning the construction timeline, demonstrating Morgan Sindall's commitment to environmental responsibility.
Sustainability remains central to the project's approach - Morgan Sindall has partnered with EMR, a metal recycling company, to provide sustainability and recycling education opportunities. Steel waste from the construction site is being recycled, with proceeds being returned directly to the school, creating both environmental and educational benefits for pupils.
The fast-paced project start was completed during the six-week holiday period to minimise disruption to pupils and staff, whilst the provision of cycle shelters reflects the project's commitment to promoting sustainable transport options.
Richard Fielding, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the Midlands, said:
Reaching this steel signing milestone represents an incredible achievement on what has been a complex but rewarding project. Delivering specialist educational facilities requires careful consideration of the unique requirements of pupils with special educational needs and we're proud to be creating a learning environment that will truly support their development.
It's particularly satisfying to incorporate sustainability education directly into the project through our partnership with EMR, ensuring pupils benefit from learning about recycling and environmental responsibility whilst their new school takes shape."
Julie Eaton, Headteacher at Selly Oak SEN School, added:
As the Headteacher of this wonderful school, I am delighted that the new build is underway. Students and staff alike are fascinated by the work going on and the opportunity for a real life insight into the building industry. The new building will offer our students a fantastic environment for them to learn and grow in and we can't wait to see it completed.”
Damian Donnelly, Associate Director, Constructing West Midlands, commented: We’re proud to be supporting the delivery of this project in continued partnership with Birmingham City Council. The progress made is testament to the collaborative approach adopted by all parties, underpinned by early contractor involvement through the Constructing West Midlands Framework. It stands as a clear example of how integrated working can help shape educational environments that meet the complex needs of their future learners.”
ENDS
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