BAM, a leading construction contractor, has embarked on two significant school redevelopment projects valued at £147 million in the UK. These projects, which include the redevelopment of Steyning Grammar School in West Sussex and Bradfields Academy in Kent, are poised to enhance educational infrastructure and support local economies.
What Happened
BAM has initiated a £102 million project to consolidate Steyning Grammar School's three existing sites into a single, purpose-built campus. This new campus will accommodate up to 2,400 students and will feature four new buildings, multi-use games areas, and an all-weather sports pitch. The design of these facilities aims to integrate seamlessly with the picturesque South Downs landscape.
In Chatham, Kent, BAM is undertaking a £45 million project to rebuild Bradfields Academy. This new two-storey facility will cater to special educational needs and disabilities, providing accessible teaching, therapy, and life-skills facilities for 444 pupils aged four to 19. The construction is being phased to ensure that the school operations continue uninterrupted.
These projects are not only about infrastructure but also about community impact. BAM has committed to generating a combined £47 million in social, local, and economic value through these projects. This includes creating local employment opportunities, offering apprenticeships, and providing over 800 hours of curriculum support through T-Level and work-experience placements.
What This Means for Your Business
For businesses in the AECM sector, these projects highlight the growing demand for educational infrastructure that supports modern teaching needs and community integration. The focus on generating social value and providing educational support aligns with broader industry trends towards sustainable and community-focused development. Companies involved in similar projects should consider these factors to enhance competitive positioning and meet procurement criteria.
Additionally, these projects underscore the importance of maintaining operational continuity during construction, a key concern for educational institutions. This presents opportunities for AECM firms to develop and market expertise in minimizing disruption during complex, live-environment projects.
What US Operators Should Watch
US operators should monitor the UK's approach to integrating social value into large-scale construction projects, as this may influence future procurement requirements in the US. The emphasis on apprenticeships and curriculum support reflects a growing trend towards workforce development that could impact compliance and funding opportunities stateside.
Also, the phased construction approach at Bradfields Academy serves as a potential model for maintaining operation continuity, which could be critical for similar projects in the US. This approach might become a best practice for projects requiring minimal disruption to ongoing operations, particularly in the education sector.
Source: https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2026/11/11/bam-starts-147m-brace-of-school-rebuilding-jobs/
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