Shiplake College Case Study

Expanding Sixth Form Capacity with Modular Seating

Overview

To accommodate a growing number of sixth form students while maintaining a comfortable and functional learning environment, we delivered a modular seating solution for the school’s newly developed sixth form area. The project focused on maximising seating capacity, improving flexibility, and creating a modern collaborative space that supports both independent study and group interaction.

The Challenge

The school required additional seating capacity within the new sixth form area.

The existing layout limited the number of students who could comfortably use the space at one time, while traditional fixed furniture reduced adaptability for different learning and social settings.

Key objectives included:

  • Increasing student capacity
  • Maintaining clear circulation routes
  • Creating a modern, welcoming environment
  • Supporting both collaborative and independent working

The Solution

We proposed and installed a modular seating system designed specifically for education environments.

The modular configuration allowed the seating to be arranged efficiently within the available footprint, significantly increasing the number of usable seats while preserving openness within the room.

The design incorporated:

  • Flexible modular bench seating
  • Integrated tables and collaborative zones
  • Durable upholstery suitable for high daily usage
  • Contemporary finishes to complement the new sixth form interior
  • Layouts that can be adapted as requirements change over time

By carefully planning the footprint and flow of the area, we were able to maximise seating density without compromising comfort or usability.

Installation

The installation was completed within the agreed programme to minimise disruption to the school.

Our team coordinated closely with site management to ensure:

  • Safe installation within an active education environment
  • Efficient delivery and assembly
  • Minimal interruption to staff and students
  • High-quality finishing throughout the project

The Outcome

The completed sixth form area now provides a flexible and modern environment capable of accommodating significantly more students.

Benefits included:

  • Increased seating capacity
  • Better use of available floor space
  • Improved student collaboration and social interaction
  • A more contemporary and professional appearance
  • Flexible layouts for future adaptability

We love our
people

We are all about our people, we continually invest time and energy into our highly skilled trades men and women. We also actively encourage the next generation, ensuring we nurture the passion for this craft safeguarding it for the future.

We are
innovative

Our relentless research and development for environmentally friendly solutions to provide sustainable services and products ensure our customers receive furniture that will last, can be recycled and not cost the earth.

We support
Britain

Manufacturing our Indestructible Student Chairs within our Reading, Berkshire custom made factory, we use components and fabrics sourced in Britain. Our re-upholstery workshop and woodwork re-polishing teams – all working in-house, – also support the same ethos to buy British and buy local.