WHAT HAPPENS AFTER RIBA STAGE D ?
· Clarifying the steps once stage D is reached both in design/construction and in school change plans. Nick Kemp/David Rumsey
Minutes:
The board were provided with a diagram which set out, visually, the plans for the high level post stage D plan. The board noted that stage D required an intensive amount of activity lasting only 8 weeks which began with a planning proposal being submitted and ended with design and construction. Noted that project managers would be discussing stage D with schools to highlight where necessary action is required. To note that advice to schools entering stage D, at a later stage, would be better as there would be the experience of other schools to learn from.
Agreed the need for more information on roles in this process and ensuring that BSF type issues are addressed. Noted that it would be important for schools to examine the plan and identify at an early stage where support is required and to ensure that there is an implementation plan compiled to meet the tight completion deadline of 8 weeks which could not be extended. Further noted that issues should be identified by schools where BSF centrally can provide advice and assistance with. The board were advised that it was important for schools to conduct a self review and fully question what tasks needed to be completed before September. Agreed that this could be considered at the ICT forum where there could be further debate on the level and type of support needed.
The board learned that there was a need to look at divisions of labour and identify the main tasks to be completed and delegated. Suggested that job roles could be examined to further divide up tasks.
The board commented that there could have been more advance warning of the level and intensity of activity at stage D to allow necessary dialogue to be prepared for. Also there was a need to factor in school holidays which also impacted on the number of tasks requiring completion.
The board raised the following issues which were responded to regarding stage D:
· Need for early advice on the schedule for stage D to allow pre stage planning by schools.
· Early involvement of the FFE person to consider and advice on the layout of the classrooms. – Noted that the experience of contractors will be relied upon and the final layout of classrooms will be determined by MSP.
· Noted the specific issues with Woodside High which had to deal with the cost of sprinklers (after late government guidance) and being the first school to enter stage D in school holiday period.
The board commented that it would-be important to expedite the pace of the school BSF projects to reach stage D, ideally by the school summer holidays. The board noted that the BSF team would consider the board’s overall comments on stage D and have further discussions with schools.