Educational institutions are diverse, complex and ever-changing, from heritage buildings to modern campuses. Delivering results requires expertise at every step.
McBains specialises in guiding schools, colleges, universities and training centres through every stage of planning, construction and refurbishment.
Whether starting with a blank canvas or navigating listed-status constraints, we integrate strategic management and design to maximise facility use and project impact.
Our experience spans programme and portfolio planning, new builds, extensions and reconfigurations, always anticipating the evolving needs of educational establishments. With clear accountability and innovative solutions, we ensure each project meets or exceeds expectations, delivering tangible results.
Because we understand that no two educational establishments are the same, we do more than design and deliver. From centuries-old heritage sites to cutting-edge campuses, we combine deep sector experience with a forward-looking approach to advise, challenge and improve every project.
Our role is to protect investment, manage risk and help clients unlock the full potential of their learning environments.
Tamworth, Staffordshire
Replacement of the existing TORC and Tamworth College facilities with new teaching and learning accommodation in Tamworth town centre.
Services
Building Services Engineering, Civil & Structural Engineering, Cost Management, Project Management, Sustainability & ESG
Sectors
Civic & Government, Education, Regeneration & Urban Development
Chichester, West Sussex
Construction of a new purpose-built STEM and Higher Education Centre at Chichester College.
Services
Clerk of Works / NEC Supervisor
Sectors
Education, Science & Technology
Wimbledon, Greater London
A new sixth form block at Ricards Lodge High School in Wimbledon in the London Borough of Merton.
Services
Architecture, Building Services Engineering, Civil & Structural Engineering, Sustainability & ESG, Health & Safety
Sectors
Education, Civic & Government
Chiswick, Greater London
A redevelopment project comprising upgrade works and new facilities, to improve the cohesion of a formerly disparate campus on a tight, urban site.
Services
Cost Management
Sectors
Education, Retrofit
Brent, Greater London
Extension and refurbishment of a Grade II listed primary school to provide six new classrooms and a multi-purpose hall.
Services
Architecture, Digital Engineering (BIM)
Sectors
Education
Caversham, Berkshire
New sixth form centre, providing an active, digital learning zone to enable students to take advantage of industry standard software and devices.
Services
Cost Management
Sectors
Education
Eton, Berkshire
Newly constructed school complex, comprising teaching accommodation, along with Greek-inspired debating and lecture theatre.
Services
Cost Management
Sectors
Education, Heritage
Bracknell, Berkshire
Construction of a new 13,000 square metre school at Garth Hill College in Bracknell, replacing the existing school building and facilities.
Services
Employer's Agent
Sectors
Civic & Government, Education
Merton, Greater London
School maintenance & condition surveying programme for Merton Council across portfolio of primary schools, SEN schools & 6th form buildings.
Services
Building Surveying, Civil & Structural Engineering, Cost Management, Employer's Agent
Sectors
Education, Civic & Government
Lewisham, Greater London
Upgrades and refurbishment of areas within the Brockley Rise Adult Learning Centre in Lewisham.
Services
Building Surveying, Cost Management, Project Management, Health & Safety, Architecture, Civil & Structural Engineering, Building Services Engineering
Sectors
Education, Civic & Government, Retrofit
We work with schools, academies, colleges, universities and training providers, as well as local authorities and education bodies, delivering projects that respond to evolving learning needs, operational priorities and long-term estate strategies. Our experience spans both public and privately funded initiatives, supporting clients in creating environments that maximise value, enhance utilisation and improve the overall learning experience.
ArtsEd
/Brunel University
/Department for Education
/Education & Skills Funding Agency
/Eton College
/Harris Academy
/Ibstock Place School
/Kings College
/London Metropolitan University
/Queen Anne's School
/Ricards Lodge High School
/South Staffordshire College
/University of Oxford
/University of Westminster
/West Dean College
“Communication on this challenging project is absolutely key, as there have been numerous significant changes introduced post contract. The McBains Team have performed excellently, handling these in a way that demonstrates a good understanding of DfE process and requirements and communicating extremely well throughout.”
Dave Webb, Construction Project Director, PSBP
Department for Education
December 5, 2025
September 30, 2025
June 2, 2025
July 15, 2024
January 27, 2021
Working in the education sector demands more than technical expertise. It’s about understanding people, purpose and potential. Our teams bring curiosity, empathy and adaptability to every project, listening closely to students, staff and stakeholders to create spaces that inspire learning. Collaboration, insight and creative problem-solving guide every decision, ensuring projects are not only efficient and flexible but also enhance the experience of those who use them. In education, the people behind the project make all the difference.
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