Project Overview
This project entailed the comprehensive refurbishment of two historic boarding houses at Uppingham School, Fircroft (built in 1871) and Farleigh (1896).
The renovation was split over two phases, conducted during the Easter and summer holiday periods to minimise disruption to the school.
The scope of work included stripping out existing spaces, inserting new steelwork and connections for the removal of walls, internal partitions and doors, repairing windows, upgrading mechanical and electrical installations, and redecorating.
Fircroft, one of the ‘hill houses’ overlooking the southern approach to Uppingham, now features boys’ dormitories, a games room, and a large kitchen designed for year-group evenings.
The refurbishment aimed to enhance the living and recreational spaces, making them more functional and comfortable for the students.
Farleigh, known as one of the old ‘country houses’, has been redeveloped to offer modern amenities. It now includes contemporary bedrooms, a TV and games room, a separate common room for the Upper Sixth, a house library, a music practice room, and a small gym. These enhancements were intended to provide a balanced mix of study, relaxation, and recreational facilities, catering to the diverse needs of the students
Overall, the refurbishment of these historic boarding houses was a significant project, blending modern amenities with the historic charm of Uppingham School, ensuring the facilities meet contemporary standards while preserving their heritage.
Core Team
Gary Wykes
Board Director
Gary started his construction career at 16 as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor, combining hands-on experience with studies at Kettering and Northampton Colleges, where he earned ONC and HNC qualifications. He later obtained a part-time degree from Nottingham Trent University, completing it in five years thanks to his prior qualifications.
In the mid-1980s, Gary worked with a second company, managing projects in Hatfield and Aylesbury, before seeking a role closer to home. Joining SDC in the late 1980s, he progressed from Quantity Surveyor to Senior Quantity Surveyor and then Manager of the Special Projects Division. During the early 1990s recession, Gary played a key role in restructuring the division, which focused on smaller-scale projects. This effort helped position SDC for long-term success in a challenging economic climate.
Appointed to SDC’s Board of Directors in 2003, Gary oversees the Special Projects Division, manages key projects, and contributes to strategic and financial planning. Between 2004 and 2007, he played a role in transitioning SDC to an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT), ensuring stability and employee-centred governance. His leadership alongside the other Board Directors has been pivotal in navigating challenges and ensuring stability.
Gary has fostered enduring relationships with major clients like Jaguar Land Rover and the University of Cambridge, emphasising quality and client satisfaction. Over decades, he has supported SDC’s evolution from a more informal operation to a professional, structured organisation. As the company continues to grow and adapt, he remains committed to supporting its ongoing success and ensuring it is well-positioned to meet future challenges.
Graham Staughton
Special Projects Manager
Graham is one of SDC’s longest-serving employees, having joined the company in 1981. With over 40 years of experience, his career has evolved significantly, and he now leads the day-to-day operations of the Special Projects division. Since his appointment as Department Manager, his leadership and experience have been key drivers in the continued success and growth of the Special Projects Division
Ben Marwood
Contracts Manager
Grant Thompson
Commercial Lead
Mathew Collins
Design Manager
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
