Upton-by-Chester High School
Chester, UK
Project overview
Inclusive secondary school redevelopment improving student learning experience
Upton-by-Chester High School is a high-quality, secondary school, designed to support students now and for future generations. As part of the Department for Education’s (DfE) School Rebuilding Programme, this modern, state of the art school redevelopment will provide spaces for 1,845 students and 175 staff in an inclusive, future-ready setting.
Our design fosters connection and collaboration between the pupils, instilling a strong sense of community within the school. The C-shaped building creates a large sheltered open courtyard and brings classrooms, departments and shared learning spaces closer together, fostering connection and collaboration between pupils. This arrangement will improve circulation, encourage collaborative learning and strengthen everyday social connection.
We have prioritised flexibility and adaptability, enabling the school to evolve as teaching practices and DfE requirements develop. Arranged across three storeys, 40 classrooms, science laboratories, studios, a library, specialist music and design technology spaces and dedicated SEND provision, create an inclusive, inspiring learning environment for all learners.
We are ensuring that teaching and learning remains uninterrupted throughout construction, delivering the school through a phased redevelopment. By completing the new school before removing existing facilities, there will minimal disruption to day-to-day school life.
Throughout the design process, we have placed student wellbeing at the heart of every decision. To support pupil concentration and comfort, we are creating an optimal learning environment by maximising daylight and natural ventilation.”
Imran Kassim
Project Directorsustainability
Supporting student and community wellbeing through sustainable spaces
Benefitting both the environment and wider community, this future-ready school building exceeds sustainability requirements. Through a biodiverse green roof enhancing local ecology, photovoltaic panels and canopies generating on-site renewable energy and air source heat pumps improving energy efficiency, the design delivers long-term environmental and operational value.
At the core of our design was nurturing student and teacher wellbeing, creating spaces that support physical health, wellbeing and sustainable lifestyles. Green outdoor areas enhance access to and from the school and by expanding cycle storage from 125 to 230 spaces, we are encouraging active travel, whilst reducing carbon impact.
key information
Project summary
Location
St James Ave, Upton, Chester CH2 1NN
Client
Kier Construction
Size
12, 900 m2
Value
£52m
Completion
2028
Includes
1,845 student spaces
Science laboratories,
Studios
Library
Specialist music and design technology teaching spaces
Contact
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Related News
An exciting milestone reached as the redevelopment of Upton-by-Chester High School begins
Project News
5 Jan 26
Celebrating our shortlisting as Architectural Practice of the Year at the Education Property Awards 2026
Awards
19 Dec 25
Designing for safety, dignity and belonging: Reflections from Learning Places Scotland 2025
Thought Leadership
26 Nov 25