Nine modular schools delivered to expand Northumberland Country Council’s education

Northumberland County Council had a vision focused on enhancing educational outcomes and creating sustainable, future-proof spaces for schools.

One of the key goals of the brief was to have schools that were safe to build, use, maintain, and demolish, Portakabin was approached to deliver a series of modular classrooms with internal and external spaces for study, work, and play that provided comfort and wellbeing for both pupils and teachers.

In 2023, the Portakabin team successfully completed the installation of modular buildings at five schools, including James Calvert Spence College, Cramlington Learning Village, Seaton Sluice Middle School, Felton First CofE Primary School, and Shilbottle Primary School. These educational facilities included modular classrooms, nursery blocks, and staff rooms designed for modern learning and accessibility.

The Shilbottle classroom, Seaton Sluice Middle School, and Felton First CofE Primary School were part of a project aimed at addressing issues with the condition of existing mobile classrooms by replacing them with new, Portakabin modular buildings.

Portakabin used a total of 59 modular buildings to deliver flexible, sustainable, and modern learning environments at each school The modular buildings featured air conditioning, heating, emergency lighting, access control systems, and solar panels to ensure compliance with safety regulations while minimising environmental impact, with some schools complete with brick-like cladding to match the aesthetics of the existing school.

Through this phased approach, Portakabin helped Northumberland County Council achieve its vision of enhancing educational facilities and infrastructure while meeting the aspirations and requirements of those who will be using the facilities the most – it’s pupils and teaching staff. With nine schools now completed, this project highlights the unique ability Portakabin has to deliver turnkey solutions that meet evolving educational needs, to create inspiring spaces for learning, and to provide modern, aesthetically pleasing additions to local communities.