Designing a specialist school where every learner can thrive.
The University of Derby wanted to create a specialist learning environment that would strengthen higher education in Chesterfield. The Grade II listed St. Helena Building offered the perfect starting point — a landmark with deep roots in the town and the potential to become a modern centre for healthcare and engineering education.
Originally opened in 1911, the building was designed by George Widdows and first served as Chesterfield Girls’ High School. Its distinctive architectural style and long educational history made it an important part of the town’s heritage. Our challenge was to respect that character while reworking the building for the University’s growing needs. It meant striking a balance between preservation and transformation, making sure the final design remained true to its past but ready for the future.
We collaborated closely the Contractor throughout the project. Early workshops helped us understand the condition of the existing structure, the opportunities hidden within the listed fabric and the constraints that come with a building of this age.
Restoring a Grade II listed building also meant working carefully and respectfully. We retained key architectural features wherever possible, from original facades to internal details that tell the story of the building. At the same time, we introduced new building services, improved accessibility and upgraded environmental performance to ensure the campus meets today’s expectations around comfort, safety and sustainability.
The refurbished campus provides highly specialised facilities for adult nursing and engineering courses. Drawing on extensive experience in the education, healthcare and advanced manufacturing sectors, the design incorporates NHS-standard six-bed mock wards, a Clinical Skills Suite and an immersive interactive simulation suite, offering students realistic, hands-on learning environments that closely mirror professional practice.
In addition to teaching spaces, the project includes flexible office accommodation and start-up environments, supporting local entrepreneurs and strengthening links between the University and the wider town. The result is a revitalised campus that not only supports specialist education, but also contributes positively to Chesterfield’s economic and social regeneration.
