Sutton High School

1. Modern layout and furniture
In a move away from traditional rows of benches, we introduced faceted arc benching that curves towards the teaching wall. This design focuses student attention on the teacher and a central screen, encouraging engagement and collaboration. Each lab accommodates around 25–27 pupils, including two dedicated spaces with height-adjustable DDA desks to ensure inclusivity.

The labs were fitted with our Capacity furniture range, chosen for its robustness and adaptability. Solid-grade laminate worktops were installed, providing durability against heavy use and chemical exposure. Integrated lab sinks were placed at the end of each bench run, supported by concealed services (gas, water, and electricity) routed beneath the floor for safety and neatness. Bench-mounted sockets give students easy access to power for experiments and technology.

2. Teacher wall and smart technology
Each room now features a Teacher Wall, a multifunctional storage and teaching zone. This includes generous cupboard and drawer space, integrated tray units for equipment, and a large interactive smart screen.
“The Teacher Wall keeps the labs organised while putting everything the teacher needs within easy reach,” says project lead Matthew Henderson.

A smart screen, housed within the Teacher Wall, provides a dynamic tool for interactive demonstrations and presentations.

3. Storage solutions
Efficient storage was a key requirement. Alongside the Teacher Wall, Pinnacle installed an Infinity Cupboard system and perimeter units fitted with Gratnells trays, ideal for storing non-hazardous lab equipment.

A prep room located between the labs allows the teacher access to chemicals while keeping them out of the pupils' reach.

Safety a priority
Safety was a central consideration in the project’s design. We supplied a mobile fume cupboard, which can be docked at the teacher’s desk or easily moved between rooms. Each lab was also fitted with drench eyewash units, offering rapid-response eye care in case of accidents.

Comfort and inclusivity
To improve accessibility, we installed height-adjustable DDA desks at the front of the labs, allowing all pupils to participate fully in lessons.
Electric blackout blinds were fitted across the full-length windows, controlled remotely by the teacher. They can be lowered individually or collectively, enabling easy and quick adjustments for experiments that require controlled lighting.

Project delivery
Delivering the refurbishment required meticulous planning and coordination. The project team stripped the spaces back to bare shells, including re-routing around 80 linear metres of service channels beneath the floors for new gas, water, and electrical supplies. The only element retained was the ceiling grid; everything else was renewed.

“Delivering two fully refurbished labs in just seven weeks required precise scheduling and expert project management,” says Pinnacle project lead Matthew Henderson.