Lycée Français, London
The school remained fully operational throughout the project, making the continued provision of meals, student safeguarding and site security critical considerations. Temporary catering facilities were established both on and off site, with meals transported to the school while the permanent kitchen was unavailable.
The basement location presented limited access, constrained working conditions and complex logistics. Construction deliveries shared access routes with the temporary catering operation and had to be coordinated with daily food deliveries, school activities, road closures and occasional crane operations.
Significant technical challenges also emerged and the introduction of additional waterproofing requirements after construction had begun. Existing concrete substrates varied in age and condition, while aspects of the mechanical and electrical design required development.
Sinden worked closely with specialist subcontractors to assess the existing substrates and develop practical solutions for the waterproofing, drainage, screeds and resin flooring. Floor build-ups and falls were redesigned to provide a coordinated and durable solution within the challenging basement environment.
The project team and specialist supply chain also led elements of the mechanical and electrical design development, resolving buildability issues and turning design information into workable installation solutions. This collaborative approach allowed construction to move forward while technical details and client requirements continued to evolve.
Safeguarding and security procedures were rigorously maintained throughout the works. Site management personnel held Enhanced DBS certification, access outside designated construction areas was carefully controlled and the team worked closely with the school to ensure all gates and access points remained secure.
Deliveries were planned around the school’s activities and temporary catering arrangements. A major crane lift was scheduled during a school holiday to reduce disruption, while regular communication with school representatives allowed delivery times and logistics plans to be adjusted when operational requirements changed.
Sinden maintained transparent communication through progress reports, design coordination meetings, programme updates and formal notifications of delays. Completion forecasts were regularly reviewed and communicated, giving stakeholders clear and realistic visibility as the scope and programme evolved.
The completed facility provides Lycée Français with a modern commercial kitchen capable of reliably supporting the preparation of approximately 1,000 meals each day. The replacement of ageing infrastructure, together with the new waterproofing, flooring and building services, provides an improved catering environment and reduces future maintenance liabilities.
Despite significant design development and client-led changes, Sinden ensured the kitchen was operational for the start of the new academic year. The project was handed over in line with the revised completion forecast communicated to the client.
Through practical design leadership, specialist supply chain collaboration and careful delivery within an occupied school, Sinden successfully overcame complex technical and logistical challenges while protecting safeguarding, security and the continuity of the school’s catering operation.
More Projects
Kelmscott Primary School
Sarah Bonnell School
Colegrave Primary School
