To accommodate an increase in pupil numbers, a new school block was commissioned to provide additional general teaching and specialist classrooms, a central dining hall and kitchen, the Headteacher’s office and staff workspaces.
Consulting | Multidisciplinary
Hethersett Academy expansion (H Block)
Client: Norfolk County Council Children’s Services
Project Overview
Located directly south of the existing G Block, designed by Norse Group’s Consulting team and completed in 2020, the new development continues the same architectural language and material palette, reinforcing site identity and visual continuity. Together, the new block and G Block form a central hub for performance, events, and social activity.
With the school intake increasing in September 2024, the existing dining and kitchen facilities were no longer sufficient. The new building addressed this demand while creating new opportunities for how space is used across the campus. The new dining hall and its external terrace provide flexible spaces for everyday use and special events. The north terrace includes tiered seating steps, creating an informal, social zone for outdoor dining and gathering.
Sustainability
The approach to sustainability was driven by the integrated design team behind Hethersett Academy’s new general teaching and dining block.
A fabric-first design prioritised high insulation, airtightness, and natural ventilation to reduce energy demand and enhance comfort. Use of thermal mass and optimising south-facing classrooms help to regulate temperature year-round without reliance on air conditioning.
Smart ventilation systems, including heat recovery and in-class air quality monitors, maintain fresh air while saving energy. Heating and hot water are delivered via air source heat pumps, backed by a 140m² rooftop solar array.
The inclusion of a centralised sit-down dining hall and electric kitchen has enabled a shift away from single-use disposable food containers in favour of traditional plates and cutlery.
This has reduced waste and litter while improving students’ dining experience. Overall resulting in a healthy, low impact building designed for the future.
Wellbeing
The new building has improved not just the physical environment, but the overall school culture.
The central dining area has allowed lunchtimes to be consolidated and better managed, reducing disruption and congestion compared to previous staggered sittings. Meals are freshly prepared onsite in the new kitchen and served at tables, encouraging students to sit and eat together. This shift fosters a more mindful, social dining experience that supports student wellbeing and encourages healthier relationships with food.
The school has observed an overall improvement in behaviour and student engagement, which it attributes in part to the quality of the new facilities and what they represent, an investment in students and their future.
Budget
Budget Before the original contractor abandoned the site, the project was comfortably within budget. Norse Group had identified early signs of financial trouble with the contractor and escalated the issue as necessary.
This proactive approach ensured that legal advice was sought, allowing for the contract termination to proceed with minimal impact on the project timeline.
Norse Group then collaborated closely with SCC to determine the most suitable procurement route and build methodology.
Testimonial
What our clients say
“The new building is amazing and we are very pleased. Especially with the dining hall, thank you to all involved.”
Jane Diver , Principal, Hethersett Academy
“Hethersett students are so lucky to work and learn in such an inspiring environment.”
Tom Hilton , Assistant Principal, Hethersett Academy
Craftmanship
Delivered via a traditional procurement route, the project gave the client greater control over build quality, ensuring the result met their expectations for long-term performance in an educational setting.
A unique detail of the project lies in the Design & Technology rooms, where bespoke workbenches for the Resistant Materials workshop and Graphics studio were handcrafted by a member of the school’s estates team.
Made with simple, readily available materials, these pieces not only fulfil a functional role but also serve as a point of pride and inspiration, celebrating local craftsmanship and reinforcing a sense of ownership within the school community.
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