St Nicholas Primary School Refurbishment & Plumbing Works

Client: St Nicholas Primary School

Budget: £10,216

Department: Property Services

Completed: October 2026

Summary:

St Nicholas Primary School commissioned refurbishment and plumbing works to improve the condition and appearance of its learning environment. The project involved redecorating the KS1 corridor and three classrooms, alongside essential plumbing repairs to address internal faults and an underground water supply leak. Completed within five days during half-term, the works refreshed the school's facilities while minimising disruption to daily activities. interest and improve the building’s marketability.

Requirements:

The works were designed and required to significantly improve the building’s thermal performance and modernise its appearance. Enhancing the U‑values of the first‑floor unit, home to the Oxford Dive Centre, supports a more comfortable, energy‑efficient space for the community. Upgrading the exterior was also essential for attracting new tenants to the vacant ground‑floor unit, with a refreshed façade helping to increase interest and improve the building’s marketability.

Challenges:

• Tight project timeframe — Completing both refurbishment and plumbing repairs within a five-day period required effective planning and coordination to meet the agreed deadline.

• Working within an active school environment — Daily school clubs and activities continued throughout the works, requiring careful management of working areas to minimise disruption and maintain safety.

• Protecting existing furnishings — Working around classroom furniture and school equipment required additional precautions to prevent damage during refurbishment.

Solutions:

ODS coordinated the refurbishment and plumbing works to meet the deadline while minimising disruption. Furnishings were protected, and working areas managed to maintain a safe environment.

Manual working methods reduced reliance on powered tools, while excavated materials were reused for backfilling to minimise waste and transportation. Complimentary site surveys also supported project planning.

Outcome:

The works were completed on time and within budget, delivering refreshed learning spaces and high-quality finishes within the agreed project costs.

With no disruption to school activities or reported safety incidents, the project demonstrates ODS's ability to deliver refurbishment and maintenance services safely, efficiently and to a high standard.