Chelmsford College

SEH French has supported the next generation of construction professionals with its project at Chelmsford College.  

The project involved the construction of a two-storey structure, designed by Ingleton Wood, to replace the existing temporary buildings onsite.  

As a purpose-built facility, the construction centre provides future tradespeople with a state-of the-art environment to build their skills. The facility includes new carpentry workshops, a multifunctional workshop, flexible classroom spaces and toilets.  

Internally, the mechanical and electrical systems (M&E) have been left exposed for aesthetic purposes. By doing so, it provides an industrial yet professional look to the building. 

SEH French recruited a number of students to decorate part of the centre, in order to provide valuable hands-on experience. So, they received real-life experience on a live site and a sense of achievement by seeing their work daily. 

The building features an external canopy to accommodate outdoor activities, such as roofing. Therefore, students can continue their education without being disrupted by the unreliable British weather. 

The exterior of the building has been fitted with solar panels to increase sustainability. Following close work with Ingleton Wood’s sustainability team, the building achieved BREEAM Very Good and an EPC rating of A. 

Debs Hurst, Deputy Principal Finance and Corporate Services at Chelmsford College, said: “We want our students and apprentices to have high quality facilities to learn in.   

“Our new Construction Centre provides the ideal environment so learners can gain and develop their skills in trade and technical construction.  

“Facilities include cutting-edge workshops for site carpentry, bench joinery and a renewables and plumbing workshop, featuring low carbon building technology. 

“Our partners have been a pleasure to work with and the project delivered on time and on budget.  

“SEH French’s focus on sustainability and building for the future have helped us stay aligned with our mission to create an outstanding building ready for future generations.” 

Simon Girling, Director of SEH French, said: “It was a pleasure to work alongside Ingleton Wood to deliver this state-of-the-art facility for future tradespeople.  

“Providing young people with the right environment to learn will help bridge the skills gap we have in the industry. 

“I’d also like to thank the students who helped with the decoration of the facility. They have done a fine job!”  

Find out more about our projects on the What We Do page. Alternatively, get in touch with us to see how we can support your project. 

Image from Ingleton Wood/Clare Banks 2022