School technology block built using MMC and efficient structural design
A secondary school building delivered using offsite construction and SIPs to reduce disruption, accelerate delivery, and support long-term energy performance.
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SIPs construction
MMC approach
Reduced site impact
We knew early on that a traditional approach wouldn’t work for this site - limited access and a live school environment meant we had to think differently. Using SIPs and an MMC approach allowed us to cut down on time, waste, and disruption, while still delivering a high-performing, energy-efficient structure. It’s a good example of sustainable design meeting real-world constraints.
Mark Weston
Structural Engineer
School technology block built using MMC and efficient structural design
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SIPs construction
MMC approach
Reduced site impact
Engineer:
This new Science, Design Technology, and Food Technology block demonstrates how modern construction methods can deliver sustainable, efficient buildings on constrained education sites.
JMS Engineers provided structural and civil design for the full scheme - including foundations, superstructure, and drainage - while coordinating the integration of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) as part of a Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) approach.
Offsite fabrication and rapid on-site assembly reduced disruption to the live school environment and supported programme certainty. The SIPs also contributed to improved airtightness and thermal performance, supporting long-term energy efficiency in use.
Through smart coordination and low-disruption construction, this project reflects REFEA’s approach to delivering practical, sustainable outcomes in education environments.
Focus Areas
REFEA’s work is guided by six core principles that drive sustainable structural and civil engineering - turning practical design decisions into low-carbon outcomes across East Anglia.
Reuse First
Prioritising existing structures and materials to reduce waste and embodied carbon.
Early Design Collaboration
Involving engineers early to embed sustainability from concept to construction.
Low-Carbon Materials
Specifying materials with lower embodied carbon and designing for material efficiency.
Circular Design Thinking
Designing for adaptability, longevity, and future reuse from the outset.
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Integrated Drainage Solutions
Embedding SuDS into civil engineering for sustainable, climate-resilient developments.
Practical Sustainability
Delivering buildable, cost-conscious solutions that meet real environmental targets.
Sustainable
structures
east anglia
As structural engineers, we have a unique opportunity to influence how the built environment responds to the climate crisis. Reuse isn't just about saving materials - it's about rethinking value, preserving what works, and designing with long-term resilience in mind. Through REFEA, we hope to make reuse a more practical and achievable option on projects across East Anglia by sharing knowledge, highlighting viable approaches, and supporting early-stage design decisions.
Mark Weston
Structural Engineer, JMS Engineers
Knowledge is key to sustainable change. Explore our latest insights and technical resources:
Path to a Low-Carbon Built Environment
The built environment contributes nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, much of it through construction and materials. In East Anglia, reducing embodied carbon is critical to meeting sustainability goals. By reusing structures, designing efficiently, and integrating low-impact civil solutions, we can reshape how the region builds - and lead the way towards a net zero future.