The proposed extension at Trent College looked to create a new multipurpose sports hall, along with the provision of a new glazed dining facility for use by sixth form students. The new Sports Hall extension was intended to improve the existing sports hall facilities whilst also incorporating additional event space for the school to utilise. Works also included the conversion and refurbishment of existing teaching facilities, along with the provision of a new viewing gallery.

The proposed superstructure for both new buildings was constructed from glued laminated timber (glulam frames) which were deemed particularly suitable for aesthetic purposes and due to the lightweight properties of the material, combined with the ability to furnish long lengths and large cross-sections.

Dice was instructed to undertake the detailed civil & structural design associated with RIBA work stages 02 – 06 respectively. This resulted in the management of numerous challenges and existing site constraints such as co-ordination of the proposed extension’s sub-structure with the existing school building and the diversion of a range of below ground utilities as part of the enabling works package, which was undertaken during tight timescales during half-term.