St John’s RC School and Sixth Form College, Bishop Auckland

The Brief – Proposed Improvement to Science and Sixth Form Toilets

St John’s RC School and Sixth Form was seeking out improvements to the school’s toilet facilities. Post-covid, the school was looking not only to refurbish and modernise the space, but also to future-proof the area by implementing less touch points throughout the facilities.A typical recurring problem in school toilets is vandalism, so a key consideration for the project was in seeking a way to minimise disruption while also reducing long-term maintenance costs. On top of this, the school was also looking for a better and more collegiate standard of facility for students, staff and visitors. 

The Solution 

The toilet improvements began with post-covid changes. To create facilities that reduced the risk of spreading illness and infection, we implemented hands-free controls wherever possible. This not only is a great addition in terms of improving hygiene but also aesthetically in modernising the space. 

The client was also looking for an overall improvement in image and appearance which we made using contemporary colours and design. Enhancing the appearance of the college toilet’s will now reflect the high standards of the school itself. 

In addition to the visual alterations, the school wanted to improve the layout of the toilets in order to reduce blind spots where bullying may occur. Creating an open inviting layout not only improves students’ experience of the facilities, but also allows staff to see that there are no negative social interactions happening throughout the facilities.

The Results 

The results show a modern clean space for senior students to use. The school has moved away from the previous uninviting toilets to a contemporary design that sets students up for the modern spaces they will be entering in both university and work environments.

The space has less touch points than before which not only provides a more covid-safe area but furthers the facilities appearance. The open layout solves issues with staff surveillance, while again providing an inviting area for the students. 

William Kish’s services included full design from conception to completion. The project came in within budget, which was approximately £120,000. It was completed on time ready for students to start the new term in September 2022. The whole project took approximately 8 weeks to complete.