Project Overview
Cokethorpe School’s changing pavilion is of timber frame construction, clad in timber panels and finished with a green roof – chosen to minimise the impact on the surrounding parkland.
The existing changing rooms were located away from the school’s sporting facilities, meaning there was limited access for pupils and staff. These new facilities were relocated to overcome this.
Open walkways stretch the full depth of the building allowing natural light to pass through, as well as providing external access to the 10 individual changing rooms that are arranged for teams of 22.
Each changing room was finished with vinyl flooring, plasterboard ceilings and whiterock walls, with individual shower cubicles within each room. Singular WC facilities were located at either end of the pavilion. In addition to the changing facilities, the building provided a department office and medical room, sheltered bag storage areas, and boot removal facilities for pupils.
The project was successfully delivered with minimal disruption to pupils and staff.
The SDC site team were in regular communication with the school, ensuring that key stakeholders were informed at every stage of the construction process. Additionally, the works continued through the coronavirus pandemic, with careful consideration given to ensure social distancing and enhanced cleaning measures throughout.
Harrit Stapleton, Bursar at Cokethorpe School
“Throughout the build SDC were a pleasure to work with, their staff were professional and well managed, and they worked effectively with our professional team. The quality of the build is excellent, and the school is delighted with the building and the positive response from pupils and the wider community.”
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
Grant Thompson
Commercial Lead
Mathew Collins
Design Coordinator
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
