This two stage project comprises the design and construction of two new 'state of the art' secondary schools for a combined total of 2650 pupils, through the replacement of two existing secondary schools, Bettws High School and Hartridge High School in Newport.

It was clear that Newport City Council wished to engage with a contractor that would fully contribute to a partnering relationship and include the local community. Leadbitter responded to their request by addressing the Council’s slogan ‘Together we can make it happen’.

Upon appointment Leadbitter organized an inaugural workshop for the project team which included presentations on sustainable energy systems so that there was a common understanding of these techniques. This enabled informed decisions to be made by the team regarding the extent of their inclusion within the project.

In addition there was a simple presentation on risk and value management techniques so that the project team had a common understanding of the ‘tools’ to be adopted in the quest for best value for money. Preliminary risk and opportunity and value engineering registers were compiled at this early stage. 

As the projects progress team building events are being run to ensure that the relationships formed at the start of the scheme continue to develop to the benefit of the project and all involved.

As part of our procurement strategy for the first of two replacement schools, the £20 million Bettws High School, we therefore held an open briefing meeting for potential sub-contractors and suppliers, targeting over 100 local companies with direct mail shots and placing adverts in local papers. The event was well received and a huge success.