Exciting Rebuild Project Underway at the Hewett Academy in Norwich

An exciting rebuild project is set to be underway at the Hewett Academy in Norwich.

Designed by LSI Architects, the major redevelopment plans at the secondary school are funded by the Department of Education’s £1 billion School Rebuilding Programme.

Whilst the existing building is steeped in local history and celebrated for its 1950’s architectural aesthetic, it has presented challenges in providing the facilities and space needed for a thriving learning environment. Outdated infrastructure and accessibility limitations have hindered the Academy’s ability to offer its students the best possible learning experience.

The plans include retention and refurbishment works to the locally listed central range building, with its primary entrance and retained Walter Roy Theatre, a two-storey extension is being added either side to provide new teaching and sport accommodation. The existing pool building, which is regularly utilised by pupils and the community alike, will also see refurbishment works. A collection of smaller life-expired buildings and vacant buildings along Hall Road will be demolished to improve the overall safety of the site.

The central clock tower, which is iconic to Norwich, will be retained, as will the modern aesthetic of the Crittall windows. Feature brickwork has been proposed in select locations across the proposed teaching extension to further  celebrate the relationship between old and new.

The new sports extension will strongly reference the Eileen Ash sports building which already exists on site, in terms of both its materiality and colour. The sports hall will remain available for community use, with a new visitor’s entrance being added to facilitate this.

Principal Antony Little said of the scheme: “The new build for Hewett Academy will be one that matches the ambition and aspirations of our students. This state-of-the-art school will be a fitting place to learn for local students, and builds on the history and the heritage of the school.”

Project Architect Douglas Craven said: “Hewett Academy’s rebuild promises not just a better learning environment, but also a brighter future for the local residents, something we are so proud to be a part of. The academy is located just a mile from our Norwich Studio, and for many of us at LSI has enabled learning and activity over its life, so as a collective we are excited to contribute to the next chapter for Antony and the team.”

Work onsite is expected to commence soon after Norwich City Council granted planning permission in September 2024.