How we helped
When Jericho Primary School in Cumbria was forced to close its main building due to severe damage from storm Eowyn, Cumberland Council faced an urgent challenge: how to keep 350 pupils learning safely on-site, without the disruption of relocating them to other schools. The council needed a fast, reliable solution that could deliver high-quality teaching spaces, while navigating a complex site layout and strict building control requirements.
Portakabin was appointed to provide a complete, turn-key facility that would restore continuity for the school community. The brief called for a two-storey building with ten general-purpose classrooms, staff facilities, and toilets on both levels. The site itself posed significant challenges, including the need to build over a main sewer and ensure full accessibility throughout.
Working to a tight timeline, Portakabin received the order in February 2025 and completed delivery, installation and handover in just eight weeks. The 1,038m² building was constructed using 24 precision-engineered Portakabin ‘Ultima’ modules, complete with two stair pod units. The result was a fully accessible, modern learning environment featuring air-conditioned classrooms, a dedicated staff room, and secure fencing with fire route access.
Additional services included full water and waste connections, climate controls, and a comprehensive security and access package. The building was delivered fully furnished and ready for immediate use, allowing all 350 pupils to remain together on-site while repairs to the main school roof were carried out.
James Blackwell, Headteacher at Jericho Primary School said: "When we had to close our main building due to Storm Eowyn, we faced an urgent need to maintain educational continuity for 350 pupils. Portakabin stepped in with a swift and effective solution, delivering a modern, two-storey facility that included ten classrooms and essential staff spaces. It was like a home away from home!
"The project was completed in just eight weeks, allowing all our children to remain on-site while repairs were made to the main school. This ensured that learning could continue in a safe and inspiring environment, minimising disruption during such a challenging time."
Thanks to close collaboration with Cumberland Council and their road contractors, the project was delivered on time and to specification—minimising disruption and ensuring that learning could continue in a safe, comfortable, and inspiring space.
