Dover Grammar School for Boys

Located on a very prominent site, Dover Grammar School for Boys was developed in the early 1930’s in a rather haphazard way incorporating a mixture of architectural styles ranging from mock medieval to pseudo Oxbridge Cloisters.  The existing building was deemed life expired and funding was allocated in 2014 to rebuild the school.  The project failed to garner any traction due to a number of factors not least an inability to identify a suitable development option which addressed the significant planning concerns.

We were appointed alongside Kier Construction to undertake a new feasibility study in 2018 as there was a significant risk that the funding allocation would be lost.  Following extensive and very inclusive consultation and analysis, our design can be seen to maximise the opportunities the site offers, allowing splendid views towards historic Dover Castle, The Port of Dover and The Channel. Teaching spaces either face into the protected south facing courtyard or easterly towards the outstanding views.

The School have a very strong sense of pride and heritage, and it was crucial that this was reflected in their new building.  Particularly, a number of key unique items significant to the school will be carefully relocated into the new building, including impressive stained-glass windows; the school’s Honours boards; and an exceptional pipe organ.

Planning permission was granted at the end of 2019 under delegated powers demonstrating how, with excellent engagement, consultation and consideration, very challenging schemes such as this can successfully be realised.