Creating flexible learning environments for future growth
Planning for Future Learning
Rubix was engaged by the Catholic Diocese of Auckland to provide full project management services for the expansion of St Mary's School.
The project began with a master planning process that identified the need for a new two-storey, 10-classroom block to be constructed on a flat area adjacent to a steep embankment.
As the first classroom block at the school to incorporate flexible learning spaces, the design process required extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure the facility met the school's educational and operational requirements. Rubix also undertook a careful value engineering process throughout design to ensure the project remained within budget.
Delivering Construction on a Challenging School Site
Difficult ground conditions and steep site topography presented a number of challenges during delivery. Rubix worked closely with the project team to address these complexities through careful planning and rigorous technical oversight.
With construction taking place within an operational school, minimising disruption to staff and students was a key priority. A staged construction approach was implemented, including the creation of a dedicated access route that separated construction activities from day-to-day school operations.
Points of Interest
- The new classroom block is located adjacent to a steep embankment. An accessway was constructed from the upper level of the building to the embankment, improving connectivity to other areas of the school.
- A staged programme of works was implemented to minimise disruption to the operational school throughout construction.
- Extensive landscape works formed part of the project, including stormwater swales, rain gardens and a synthetic sports field.
