The Qube Modular Buildings’ successful delivery of a turnkey modular solution for a secondary school in Milton Keynes has been shortlisted for a national award.
Work at the Watling Academy has seen Th e Qube in the running for the Secondary and Higher Education Award in the Modern Methods of Construction Awards 2026.
The £4.8m design and build project took just eight months from concept to completion and comprised a Sixth Form block and a 10-classroom teaching block, built using modern methods of construction (MMC) to combine speed of delivery, high-quality design, sustainability and long-term performance especially suited to the education sector. And it showcased The Qube’s ability to meet complex educational requirements while maintaining high standards of energy efficiency, thermal comfort and environmental responsibility.
The Qube has built a reputation for excellence in MMC, building bespoke modular structures to clients’ exacting requirements, taking on an entire project, from handling planning submissions and ensuring compliance with building regulations, to groundworks including foundations, drainage and utilities, to installation on site.
Constructed from sustainable materials, the clean lines of modular structures act like building blocks, offering the client freedom to create something that suits their exact requirements, whether it’s extra classrooms, an office block, an on-site gym with changing rooms or additional meeting rooms. The benefits of factory construction means that the speed of build is a major advantage when compared to conventional building methods.
For the Watling Academy project, using MMC enabled The Qube to maintain strict quality control, reduce waste and deliver a consistently high standard of finish, while the modular approach allowed for rapid deployment without compromising design integrity or functionality, demonstrating the benefits of MMC in the education sector. The design was delivered in line with the Department for Education’s Output Specification and its energy, thermal and sustainability criteria.
Jordan Spittle, Managing Director of The Qube, said: “All schools depend on buildings that perform consistently, feel comfortable and that can be delivered without any delays or disruption.
“Once the design is agreed and the structural panels are complete, they can be assembled relatively quickly on site to create high-performing, architecturally flexible buildings that are designed for long-term use.
“We are delighted with the outcome for Watling Academy, and are proud of the results, so it’s even more satisfying to have been shortlisted for a major award for the work we did there.”
Quality and innovation
Quality was central to every stage of the project. Key quality outcomes included:
- Robust, durable modular buildings designed for long-term educational use
- Excellent internal environmental conditions to support learning outcomes
- High levels of thermal performance and airtightness
- Compliance with all relevant building regulations and education standards
The modular approach also reduced disruption on site, with a substantial amount of the work on site being completed during the summer holidays, and the project was completed on time and within budget, further minimising disruption to the school environment and ensuring continuity of education.
The project focused on energy, thermal and sustainability requirements, supporting the wider objectives of reducing operational carbon and running costs for educational establishments.
Sustainability highlights include:
- Energy efficient building fabric and systems
- Improved thermal comfort for pupils and staff
- Reduced embodied carbon through off site construction
- Minimised site waste and environmental impact
This approach aligns with national objectives for greener, more sustainable educational infrastructure, and the completed buildings provide a high-quality, modern learning environment that supports the needs of secondary school students and staff.
The project demonstrated how MMC can deliver educational buildings that are:
- Delivered quickly and reliably
- Cost-effective over their lifecycle
- Adaptable and future-ready
- High performing in terms of energy and comfort
Helen Fry, Headteacher at Watling Academy said: “The Qube demonstrated a clear understanding of our educational, sustainability and programme requirements from the outset.
“Their fabric-first SIP approach has delivered a high-performing, robust building that integrates seamlessly with our existing school site and will provide long-term operational benefits. The design process was collaborative and responsive to our brief, with careful attention to materials and aesthetics. The clear-span sixth-form space has been transformational, creating a flexible and inspiring environment for students.
“Throughout the project, The Qube worked closely with us and the wider supply chain to achieve a phased handover within a challenging programme, while maintaining excellent engagement with our school community.”
The Qube team will be at The Grand Hotel in Birmingham on May 7 when the winners of the Modern Methods of Construction Awards are announced.
To find out more about The Qube call 01604 785786, email hello@theqube.co.uk or visit The Cube website.
