Project Overview

Clarks Construction was appointed by Shoeburyness High School to deliver a complete refurbishment of key internal and external areas within the campus. The project included significant structural works, new building fabric elements, mechanical and electrical installations, and full internal redecoration. Our scope covered demolition, groundwork, steel framing, internal fit-out, external landscaping, and systems installation — all managed and completed by our in-house team. The project demonstrates our capability to deliver complex refurbishments within a live educational environment while maintaining safety, quality, and programme integrity.

Project Scope

  • The comprehensive refurbishment works carried out by Clarks Construction included:
  • Demolition and soft strip of existing areas
  • Excavation, breakout, and reinstatement works associated with hard and soft landscaping
  • Saw cutting, core drilling, and reinstatement following structural installations
  • Installation of baseplates, precast padstones, and full structural steel framing
  • New timber packers, joists, and stairs
  • Removal of existing plasterboard ceilings and installation of new acoustic systems (50mm insulation, resilient bars, and 15mm Soundbloc plasterboard)
  • Installation of 12mm OSB to both sides of all new partitions
  • New suspended ceiling grid systems
  • Adaptation of existing windows to accommodate new external door sets
  • Installation of frosting to courtyard windows and doors
  • New external and internal door sets with associated ironmongery
  • Application of liquid DPM, latex levelling screed, and new flooring finishes (carpet tiles, non-slip Altro vinyl, and coved skirting in wet areas)
  • Full internal redecoration and installation of UPVC blackout roller blinds
  • Fire and safety signage systems and fire stopping to compartmentation lines
  • Installation of new skirtings, architraves, and aluminium astro edges
  • External works including resin bound pathways, rubber crumb surfacing, soft landscaping with subsoil and seeding
  • Installation of outdoor features such as trampolines, exercise equipment, benches, and pergola
  • Mechanical and electrical works: heating and cooling systems, ventilation, power and data, access control, fire and intruder alarms
  • Installation of new lift system
  • Application of silicone mastic to all applicable areas

Challenges & Solutions

  • Complex structural and M&E integration: Close coordination between our in-house teams and engineers ensured seamless installation and compliance with building standards.
  • Maintaining school operations during works: Implemented strict segregation, phased delivery, and communication with the school to avoid disruption.
  • Tight programme with multiple work streams: Detailed scheduling and resource planning allowed simultaneous progress across structural, M&E, and finishing trades.

Project Outcome

  • A fully refurbished facility incorporating modern finishes and compliant systems
  • Enhanced learning spaces supported by improved heating, ventilation, and safety systems
  • Upgraded external landscape areas for student recreation and accessibility
  • All works completed on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards

This project highlights Clarks Construction’s strength in managing multidisciplinary refurbishment projects, combining structural, architectural, and services works under one coordinated delivery plan.

Conclusion

The Shoeburyness High School refurbishment is a testament to Clarks Construction’s ability to deliver large-scale, complex renovation projects within active educational settings. Our integrated approach, in-house expertise, and focus on quality ensured a smooth and efficient project from start to finish.

Result: A state-of-the-art, fully refurbished school environment — completed safely, efficiently, and to the client’s satisfaction.

Before

After