SES supports delivery of cutting‑edge learning environment at Woldgate School
We are proud to have played a key role in the successful completion of Woldgate School’s transformative new teaching block in Pocklington.
Delivered as part of the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme, the completion of the state-of-the-art, three‑storey facility, marks a major milestone in the redevelopment of the Wonder Learning Partnership school, home to more than 1,200 high school students. The official opening celebrated a future‑ready campus designed to enhance learning, wellbeing and community benefit.
Working closely with Wates Construction and the Wonder Learning Partnership, we delivered a full suite of mechanical and electrical services that support the building’s high‑performing, low‑carbon design.
The new facility replaces outdated structures with a contemporary, biophilic-inspired environment that includes:
- Bright, spacious general teaching classrooms
- Specialist science laboratories
- A multi‑function assembly hall
- A dining space supported by a fully equipped kitchen
- Generous circulation areas maximising natural light and views
Each element has been engineered to prioritise comfort, energy efficiency and long-term resilience, ensuring the building supports exceptional teaching and learning for years to come.
Supporting Net Zero Carbon in Operation
As part of the CF21–25 HVB Framework, the project has been designed to achieve net zero carbon in operation (NZCiO).
To help meet this ambition, we delivered building services engineered around:
- Low embodied carbon materials
- Extensive photovoltaic solar panels for renewable energy generation
- High-efficiency heating, ventilation and lighting systems
- Smart building controls to optimise performance and minimise operational demand
This approach ensures the school not only meets today’s energy expectations but is adaptable to future sustainability requirements.
In addition to the main teaching block, the wider redevelopment includes:
- A newly completed multi‑use games area
- A forthcoming sports hall, expanding the school’s physical education and extracurricular offer
The project has generated meaningful social value, aligning with SES’s commitment to inspiring the next generation and supporting local communities. Highlights from across the project include:
- 83+ hours of curriculum support, employability sessions and work experience
- Career mentoring and CV guidance for unemployed local people
- 15 new jobs created for residents
These initiatives provided real-world insights into engineering, construction and future career pathways, to leave an impact that will extend far beyond the project itself.
From day one, the Woldgate project has been a true collaboration between the customer, contractor and supply chain and we’re incredibly proud to have supported it.
“We’ve ensured the building’s services meet the needs of today and the future by integrating low‑carbon technologies and high‑performance systems, to help create a sustainable space that will inspire students, support teachers, and deliver long-term value for the community.”
Marco Lorenzana
Project Director, SES Engineering Central
We can already see the positive impact this new building and excellent facilities are having on both pupils and staff.
“It is wonderful for the local community that our school now has a building and facilities that reflect the high-quality education and care we provide our students, and I know they are thrilled to use these fantastic facilities. The collaboration with contractors has also provided invaluable learning opportunities for our children.”
Luke Sloman
Headteacher, Woldgate School
