Bilton Grange Primary School

Introduction:

Bilton Grange Primary School was awarded a fire safety CIF grant, enabling a vital upgrade to the school’s fire doors and screens. To ensure the project was handled professionally, the school appointed RWB Fire Door Solutions as the main contractor. The school building, a partially period property, required a careful approach to preserve its historical character while enhancing fire safety.

Project Challenges

The project presented multiple challenges:

• The school’s period architecture meant that the original doors and screens were part of the building’s historic character. Removing them risked damage to original features and delicate materials.
• Plasterwork around the door frames was in poor condition and needed repairs prior to installation of the new doors.
• Work had to be carried out during the school term without disrupting classes, staff, or students.
• Midway through the project, the school was informed of an impending OFSTED inspection, adding pressure to maintain a professional and tidy environment while construction was underway.

The Process

RWB Fire Door Solutions approached the project with meticulous planning and flexibility:

• Careful removal of old doors and screens ensured no damage to the school’s historic features.
• Damaged plasterwork around door frames was repaired before installation, maintaining both aesthetics and structural integrity.
• Work was scheduled during evenings, outside of school hours, minimizing disruption to school activities. Each night, all doors were left fully functional and the premises were cleaned for the next school day.
• Despite the OFSTED inspection notice, RWB maintained a high standard of site management, ensuring the school remained presentable and operational throughout the project.

The new fire doors installed were Oak Veneered doors, carrying the BM Trada Gold and Silver plugs, signifying they were sourced from a BM Trada approved manufacturer and installed by a BM Trada approved installer.

The Results

The project was completed on time and within budget, achieving the school’s fire safety objectives while preserving the character of its historic building. Key outcomes included:

• Enhanced fire safety across the school with BM Trada certified doors and screens.
• Minimal disruption to students and staff, thanks to careful scheduling and site management.
• Successful navigation of an OFSTED inspection mid-project without impacting progress or school operations.
• Preservation of the school’s historic features, with repairs and installations executed sensitively and professionally.

The collaboration between Bilton Grange Primary School and RWB Fire Door Solutions demonstrates how careful planning, craftsmanship, and flexibility can deliver modern safety standards within a heritage setting.