Stephen Perse Foundation hold 'topping out' ceremony

A 'topping out' ceremony was held to mark a new five-storey building at the Stephen Perse Foundation reaching its maximum height.

The ceremony was a milestone in the creation of a new space at the Stephen Perse Senior School in Union Lane.

Pupils from across the foundation’s six schools witnessed the completion of the highest point of the building on Tuesday and were invited to sign the top piece of timber before it was hoisted into place.

From September, the new space will provide cutting-edge artificial turf which is on the roof of the building, as well as a huge basement sports hall.

It also provides eight new spaces designed to encourage creativity, collaboration and engagement in learning. The completed development will also be accessible to local state schools, sports and community groups.

Tricia Kelleher, Principal of the Stephen Perse Foundation, said: “The ‘topping out’ ceremony marks an exciting milestone for the Foundation. We are creating dynamic learning spaces that will enable us to deliver our vision for education for years to come. Young people across our Foundation and in our local community will have access to the tools and support they need to fulfil their potential - as we work to inspire the next generation of athletes, scientists and performers.”

Robin Dryer, from Chadwick Dryer Clarke, said: “At this landmark point in the build, it is a time to reflect on the past three years of activity and conversation with the Stephen Perse Foundation. It has been extremely rewarding to work with the governors, staff and pupils who have always sought creative solutions to match their aspirations, and with the expert project team guiding this challenging project through to fruition.

“Looking forward, the construction is already revealing a stimulating sequence of new learning spaces, and the rooftop pitch, a first for Cambridge, and the multi-purpose sports hall will be fantastic new resources for the school and the wider community.”

Ben Hayek, of Bidwells Project Management, said: “We are delighted to reach another important milestone in the delivery of this exciting and transformational project for the Foundation. It has been hugely challenging to construct within the operational school environment, and we are always pleased to make sure opportunities such as this ceremony recognise and involve the staff and pupils who have lived with the project for this past year, and will use it for many years to come.”

Dennis Cotton, Operations Director for Kier, said: “Kier has long been at the forefront of sustainable construction in East Anglia. As experts in Cross Laminated Timber structures we are very proud to be delivering these innovative new facilities for The Stephen Perse Foundation. We look forward to celebrating, with the Foundation, its students and staff, this important milestone in the project.”