An inspirational learning environment has been created for Doncaster school children, following an innovative build programme which incorporated fenestration systems from glazing systems designer and manufacturer Senior Architectural Systems.

Outwood Academy Adwick utilises window, door and curtain wall systems from Senior, helping to achieve contemporary aesthetics which are in keeping with the building’s state-of-the art facilities.

The striking 10,651-square-metre academy, on Windmill Balk Lane, was built by Wates Construction and designed by CPMG architects. After the government axed the Building Schools for the Future programme, cost-saving reforms were made, resulting in Wates Construction’s innovative Adapt Schools Solutions design approach, which was in place during the construction of Outwood.

The specification of Senior’s products by CPMG Architects ensured the cost and performance needs of the £16 million project were both comfortably met. CPMG specified Senior’s aluminium SMR800 curtain wall system for the building’s entrance, its staircases and along the length of the school canteen. The systems, installed by Dortech, help to flood the interior with natural light, creating a positive learning environment for both staff and pupils.

The SMR800 medium rise system is fully weather tested to the requirements of CWCT and is designed to achieve high weather and thermal performance, along with being compartmentally drained.

This system was specified in conjunction with Senior’s SCW+ curtain wall system and both were used throughout the project to ensure consistent, clean, crisp lines and to allow those inside the building a clear view of busy external areas.

Meanwhile, SPW600 aluminium window systems were used throughout the project, allowing for interior ventilation and air circulation. The SPW600 75mm thermally broken system is compatible with both the SCW+ and SMR800 systems.

Senior’s high-performance SPW500 and SD doors were also specified at Outwood – these too are fully compatible with the SCW+ and SMR800 curtain wall systems. The SPW500 system is high performance and thermally-improved, making it the ideal choice for busy environments including schools. The SD system offers an anti-finger trap feature and its resilience ensures the system’s suitability for high traffic environments.