East Manchester Academy (Phase 3)
East Manchester Academy (Phase 3)
East Manchester Academy (Phase 3)

education

client:

The Greater Manchester Education Trust

location:

Manchester

project:

refurbishment of second-floor science laboratories and teaching spaces

value:

£560,000


scope of work


UDC was appointed as lead consultant and contract administrator to deliver the refurbishment of existing science teaching facilities on the second floor of East Manchester Academy. the brief was to transform a series of outdated science classrooms into modern, high-quality laboratories that would support current curriculum standards and provide a long-term teaching resource for the school.


the works focused on creating specialist spaces designed to foster student engagement in science, while ensuring longevity in layout, services, and finishes. all laboratories were fully reconfigured, with updated furniture, service points, and improved lighting and ventilation.


the project forms the continuation of a wider campus improvement programme and follows on from earlier works delivered by UDC as part of phases 1 and 2.

challenges faced


a key challenge was the extremely tight timescale, with all works required to be completed before the commencement of GCSE examinations in May. this placed pressure on both the delivery programme and procurement schedule, requiring proactive co-ordination from the outset.


a significant technical obstacle involved the installation of new gas supplies to the student workbenches. due to the floor’s location, standard gas ventilation routes were unviable. to overcome this, the team sourced a specialist self-ventilating pipework system, allowing the new supply to be safely installed without compromising programme or compliance.


as with previous phases, the project was carried out within a live school environment. clear communication with school leadership, careful phasing, and a rigorous focus on safety ensured the programme stayed on track without disrupting day-to-day operations.

outcome


phase 3 has delivered a set of contemporary, fit-for-purpose science laboratories that meet the demands of modern education.


delivering high-quality spaces that will support teaching and learning for years to come has been a particularly rewarding part of the project.


as shared by the client: “on behalf of TEMA and GMET, I would like to thank you for all of your efforts on this project so far. your work has been greatly appreciated.”