rhp are Client Design Advisor to East Sussex County Council for the construction of the Hastings Academy, a new build 6 form-entry school, located on a steeply sloping site in east Hastings. The Academy was delivered by Kier Construction and their design team, through a design & build contract, an essential component of which, was to maintain a fully operational school in the existing buildings, while the new facilities were constructed. The latest developments in teaching practice can be applied through the innovative layouts of the four honeycomb teaching zones, that in conjunction with up-to-date IT and support facilities along with the landscaped grounds that benefit from an elevated position above Hastings, combine to provide an inspirational learning and teaching environment. We have been involved in the procurement of the Academy from the Authorities initial expression of interest, through to the completion of the new facilities. Our involvement has included assisting in the brief development, facilitating staff and pupil engagement, providing supporting information for the business case, reviewing and advising on the submissions of competing bidders and monitoring the design and construction works of the Contractor.