Tolent celebrates handover of the Jubilee Building at Dame Allan’s Schools

Tolent recently celebrated the successful completion of a £4.6m project for Dame Allan’s Schools.

Dame Allan’s Chair of Governors, Ian Belsham, Principal Will Scott and Bursar Vicki McDonald attended the celebration event, which marked the opening of the new building.

The project, which was previously referred to as the North End Development, has now been officially named the Jubilee Building in honour of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Principal Will Scott said: “The Jubilee Building is a major step in the evolution of Dame Allan’s Schools. It is a statement of intent and a vote of confidence, on behalf of the Governors and parent body, in the future of the Schools.

“This two-storey building, complete with a living wall, houses our wonderful art department around a light and airy exhibition space for pupils to showcase their work and be inspired by others.

“New science labs will mean the best facilities to enhance the pursuit of STEAM careers – and I know pupils will have great fun taking part in practical work in these surroundings, too.”

The construction project which included the demolition, extension and remodelling of the secondary school building was undertaken by Gateshead-based contractors Tolent. In total, the new facility includes: 16 classrooms, 3 physics laboratories, art facilities with print room and a multi-functional exhibition space together with changing rooms and staff facilities, offering the students better opportunities to learn and grow.

The event was also attended by members of Tolent’s onsite management team, who have guided the project from its inception, including Senior Site Agent, Glyn Pallister and Contracts Manager, Paul Consterdine.

Glyn Pallister, Tolent’s Senior Site Manager, said: “It is great to see the completion of what has been a great project for Dame Allan’s Schools. Whilst it has not been without its challenges, we have managed to deliver a high quality scheme to a satisfied client. It has been a pleasure to work with the Schools and it will be great to see the staff and pupils all enjoying the new space that we have created – particularly the feature art exhibition space which can showcase the pupils’ amazing work.”

Tolent is continuing to expand within the education sector with £150m+ projects delivered to date including the well-renowned Beacon of Light, Sunderland. The contractor has recently completed similar works at All Saints Church of England Academy, Thornaby and Kirkleatham Hall School, Redcar and is currently onsite progressing works behalf of Durham University at Rowan House and Stockton Borough Council.

David Thompson, Divisional Managing Director of Tolent, said: “Tolent is thrilled to have successfully completed the project providing tools that facilitate modern education. The new building is much more advanced and sustainable – it also features a living wall on the north side of the school, along with electric charging points for vehicles. We are experiencing a period of growth in the education sector with the ability to offer specialist construction services to schools, colleges and universities in the North East.”