Selecting a frame structure which met HCC’s fabric-first principles and prioritised energy-efficiency through the building envelope.
Unique to other panel systems, the Streif timber frame solution provides fully made cassette panels including external doors and windows already installed and M&E systems pre-measured and cut-out. It was therefore critical to get these details correct from the start, so the timber frame was dispatched on time to meet key site deadlines and ensure the school was ready for the September 2025 term start.
Other challenges include ensuring fire safety compliance for timber frame construction, facilitating site readiness by implementing strategic remediation and sustainable soil management protocols, and selecting a ventilation system which supported the project’s energy and design efficiency requirements.
Aligned with the fabric-first design intent, the Streif panelised timber frame solution was adopted for its myriad benefits over traditional structures including improved U-values, reduced embodied carbon and quicker watertightness; while leveraging experience from previous Streif projects.
Seamless coordination with the supply chain was critical to maintaining the programme. Numerous coordination meetings were executed with MEP, stairs and groundwork specialists, ensuring fully coordinated design, manufactured and delivered on-time. This meticulous planning enabled a seamless ‘soft landings’ approach with FF&E and IT specialists, guaranteeing the school was fully operational for the new term start.
Fire safety was rigorously managed throughout the construction process, with strict adherence to the Safe2Torch policy, MSC’s hot work protocols, and the implementation of thorough fire watch procedures.
Existing soils were stockpiled and tested for suitability. Materials that did not meet the required standards were removed. Where possible, retaining/ reusing soils and materials was prioritised, reducing waste and supporting sustainability while meeting all remediation requirements.
MVHR units were selected instead of ASHP primarily to reduce pressure within ceiling voids.
Championing the ‘fabric first’ design philosophy, the Streif system resulted in exceptional environmental performance with an air test rating of 1.16m3/(h.m2)@50Pa and near-Net Zero status of 205CO2.
The proactive approach ensured timely delivery of the timber frame; subsequently meeting key deadline dates.
The project achieved ‘Perfect Delivery’, meaning it was delivered 100% Safe, on-time, within budget and to a delighted customer.
Successfully implemented and complied with the remediation strategy; while also supporting sustainability aspirations which included 100% waste diverted from landfill.
By using localised smaller MVHR units, ductwork and material usage was minimised, achieving a more efficient design while preserving ceiling space for other services.
12 apprentices, 37 SMEs , 27 beneficiaries, 6 jobs created,
108 trainee weeks and 2,722 students engaged
£9,000 donations to charity
39% social value created
Community Quad – 2,574 hours
100% timber responsibly sourced and waste diverted from landfill
226kg/ 100k carbon footprint (against target of 454kg)
30.6 tonnes CO2e saved in MSC 10 Tonne Carbon Challenge (embodied carbon)
17 tonnes of CO2e saved from emissions (Scopes 1,2 and 3)
Waste reduction with 0.71 tonnes per £100k spend, outperforming the national target of 1.28
Zero RIDDORs
CCS Score 45/45
CCS Bronze Award
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
100% payment within 30 days terms

The Castle School
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