Dunton CofE Junior School

Location: Dunton, Biggleswade

Dunton CofE Junior School

In 2025, SMD began an exciting project to enhance and expand the facilities at Dunton Lower School, to boost this vital resource for the benefit of the local community. This initiative follows a strong campaign by villagers and local councillors to keep the school open amid proposed educational changes.

Client

Central Bedfordshire Council

Live

Approximate Value

£1.75M

Completion Date

Autumn 2025

Sector

Education

Contract Type

JCT Design & Build 2016

Design and construction

Two-storey teaching block

Cookery, art and design learning area

Multi-Use Games Area

Enhanced accessibility features

Project overview

The project involves the construction of a new two-storey teaching block, featuring three classrooms. These include a practical learning area designed for hands-on subjects such as cookery, art, and design. Additionally, internal alterations will be made to the existing premises, alongside the removal of a temporary classroom structure. A new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) will be incorporated into the development, enhancing recreational facilities and supporting year-round physical education.

The enhancements will include improved accessibility features (such as modern toilet facilities and a lift) to ensure that all students, including those with special educational needs, have equal access to educational resources. In addition, perimeter fencing upgrades will enhance school security and safety.

Our Responsibilities

As the principal contractor, maintaining a safe and efficient work environment while minimising disruption to the school community is paramount. This project involves careful planning and execution, especially taking into account ongoing school operations. Our methodology includes scheduling construction activities to avoid peak school times and implementing robust communication with staff and local residents.

In Summary

Design & Construction of a new two-storey teaching block with three classrooms
Development of a practical learning area for cookery, art, and design
Introduction of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) for year-round sports and recreational activities
Enhanced accessibility features improved security measures

Social Impact

At SMD, we’re proud to be delivering a modern, high-quality learning space for Dunton CofE Junior School – a project that represents more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about helping to shape a brighter future for students, supporting the school’s mission to deliver outstanding education, and making a meaningful difference within the local community.

From the outset, our focus has been on positive social impact. Even before work began on site, we engaged in early stakeholder meetings to understand local priorities and explore how the project could benefit the wider community. These conversations helped inform our approach to social value and community engagement, ensuring that our efforts align with the values and aspirations of the people who live and work nearby.

The project officially broke ground on 31st March, and while there’s lots more to come, we’ve already taken steps to build strong relationships with the local community. We’ve implemented targeted communication initiatives, including letter drops to neighbouring homes and proactive PR efforts, to keep residents informed and ensure transparency throughout the build.

We’re also proud to have supported a community donation initiative, providing waste materials from site to help the local church to build bug hotels – a fun and educational way to promote biodiversity and environmental awareness among young people.

These small but meaningful acts reflect our ongoing commitment to giving back. As a Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) registered site, we’re dedicated to operating responsibly, respectfully, and with the local community in mind. We understand the importance of clear, open dialogue and will continue to communicate regularly with local residents as the project progresses. We’re grateful for the warm welcome and positive support we’ve received so far, and we look forward to delivering a school that will benefit Dunton’s children for generations to come.