Old school is over

Also, the feedback we get from teachers, students, and parents is crystal clear – a well-thought-out space makes a world of difference to health and well-being too. 

I vividly recall the moments when learning truly came alive for me – usually during projects that offered the freedom to create and collaborate. Unfortunately, the classrooms I experienced didn’t encourage that kind of dynamic learning and today, what drives me is the opportunity to create teaching spaces that encourage innovation, collaboration and the cultivation of each student’s unique talents.  

We’ve been involved in some incredible classroom transformations and here are some of my favourites –  

John Lyon School 

North-West London, children aged 3 – 18 

John Lyon School asked us to give their prep school lab a modern makeover. They wanted something interactive that would spark curiosity and excitement. They envisioned a horseshoe-shaped layout so the teacher could be in the centre of the action, creating a space where everyone could join. 

We installed our Konvolve system, which is practical, durable and looks great. The new lab was designed to make the most of the space, with upgraded safety features and better accessibility. We also added new flooring, LED lighting, and an advanced gas safety system. 

By September 2024, the school was buzzing with excitement. They shared on their blog: “Our students are more motivated, engaged, and focused. Some have even said this is their new favourite space on campus.”   

That kind of feedback is exactly why we do what we do. 

 The Abbey School  

Farnham, Surrey, children aged 11-16 with learning difficulties and additional needs 

When The Abbey School came to us via O&D Construction Ltd, they needed help revamping their science and art rooms to suit students with learning difficulties and additional needs. Flexibility was key, and our job was to create spaces that worked for everyone. 

We made the art room bright, airy, and full of natural light adding ergonomic desks, sleek storage for art supplies, and plenty of shelving so students and teachers could grab what they needed. We also added a whiteboard and a noticeboard to showcase the students’ artwork. The pastel-coloured furniture created a calm, inspiring vibe that reflected the school’s identity. 

We kept that cohesive look in the science lab, pairing teal units with pastel stools. A mobile fume cupboard was added to make experiments safer and more practical. 

Both rooms were designed to be comfortable, functional, and full of personality— perfect spaces for students to learn and grow. 

Wellington College Prep 

Crowthorne, Berkshire, children aged 2-13 years.  

We helped renovate a two-story building at Wellington College Prep, making it more modern and functional. In addition to redoing the washrooms, we revamped the classrooms with a moveable wall system that lets teachers easily reconfigure the space. We also added acoustic panels to reduce noise and improve sound quality. 

The result? Bright, modern, and practical classrooms that can flex to the needs of teachers and students, and create space for everyone to focus —nothing like the ones I sat in back in the day! 

Queenswood School 

Hatfield, Herts, girls aged 11 to 18 

Queenswood’s science labs were huge, but they felt dark and outdated. We saw the potential and went for a sleek, minimalist look with white walls and pops of bold colour—navy storage, turquoise teacher walls, and purple chairs. 

We arranged the desks in a U-shape so that students could interact with the teacher easily. We also installed eight of our Konetic pods—these high-tech pods lower from the ceiling at the touch of a button and provide power and gas. Once the experiments are done, they can be retracted and stored safely meaning there’s no opportunity for pupils to get up to mischief with the bunsen burners (like we did) and the space can be used flexibly for a variety of lessons. 

We integrated bookcases and storage units, and installed two Belfast sinks along the sides of the room, to keep the central space clear and minimise accidents. The result? One of the most impressive state-of-the-art school labs in the UK, the kind of space that inspires creativity and hands-on learning. 

And finally… 

At Pinnacle, it’s our job to work alongside constructors and architects to create learning spaces that work on a practical level while making students feel inspired, engaged, and ready to take on the world. Seeing first-hand how these transformations impact pupils, teachers, and schools is what drives us to be the best in the industry.