FROM THE ADMINISTRATION

We have consulted widely with our architects and with the relevant authorities to ensure that any restoration is not only based on historical authenticity but also using best available techniques. It is imperative, given not only the delicacy and national importance of the project, but also the sheer cost and scope of it, that, whatever is done, lasts and is done well. At the moment, the plans are at an advanced stage and are awaiting decisions outside of the College’s remit.

Meanwhile, less onerous refurbishments were carried out. These were mainly related to the boarding facilities. Not only were all rooms re-furbished and furnished with air-conditioning facilities, but also the bathrooms and toilets were completely overhauled. This may sound run of the mill – remember that the building is a historic one, and that includes the plumbing! Pipes may be unseen, but certainly not unfelt if they are not upgraded.

As part of its strategy to increase the greening of the college, we also undertook to commission a structural review of the college. It is useless to plan for the installation of PV panels, for example, if the roofs cannot take the weight. This is just one example of the ‘root canal treatment’ approach with which we are approaching the future of the college. We are also formulating a plan to eventually render the college selfsufficient in energy consumption.

Plans are already in place for Summer 2022 to enhance the play area for the Early Years, which is located at the back of the Junior school revamp. The hall will also be getting a partial face lift so that the experience of coming together to celebrate our students’ achievements and abilities will be one not simply of comfort but also of dignity. To this end we are also exploring cost-effective ways of making parts of the college more easily accessible. This also ties in with our aim to open the college to a wider community