The National Mathematics and Science College appoints AIS for Project Catalyst

The National Mathematics and Science College (NatMatSci) has appointed AIS as main contractor for Project Catalyst, the major refurbishment that will transform Greenwood House on Westwood Way, Coventry, into a major new home for the College.

Project Catalyst will refurbish and reimagine Greenwood House, an existing building close to the College’s site at The Oaks, to provide new teaching, laboratory, study, dining, assembly, examination and event spaces for the specialist STEM sixth form.

Principal, Dr Andy Kemp:

“Project Catalyst is about creating a space that reflects the ambition of our students and the distinctive character of NatMatSci. We want this to be more than a school building: a STEM environment in its own right, where students can see mathematics, science, engineering, data and design at work around them.’’ 

Graham Shaw, COO, AIS:

“Project Catalyst is an exceptionally exciting scheme, not only because it will create cutting-edge educational facilities for the scientists and mathematicians of the future, but because of the ambition and clarity of the College’s vision.”

The scheme has been designed to reflect the College’s identity as a specialist mathematics and science college. A distinctive feature of the project is the intention to make the building itself part of the learning experience. Where appropriate, structure, services, engineering and data systems will be visible, helping students see mathematics, science, technology and design at work around them.

The developing plans include new and enhanced teaching spaces, laboratories, breakout and study areas, social and dining facilities, specialist STEM spaces, and a large assembly and examination space. The building will also support wider College events and opportunities for students to present, collaborate and engage with STEM beyond the classroom.

Alongside the development of its new campus, the College is continuing to expand its academic offer. From September 2027, NatMatSci will also launch an innovative STEM-focussed GCSE Programme. More information is available at https://natmatsci.ac.uk/gcse

Saunders is leading the design development for the refurbishment, working with NatMatSci to create an environment that supports advanced teaching, practical science, independent study, collaboration and College events.

AIS’s appointment as the main contractor follows a competitive selection process. The project team has been working through the developed design stage, incorporating input from architecture, building services, fire, acoustics, sustainability, structural engineering, ICT, AV and security specialists. The current programme anticipates preparation and enabling works during 2026, with the main refurbishment phase running from autumn 2026 into summer 2027.

Dr Andy Kemp, Principal of The National Mathematics and Science College:

“The appointment of AIS is an important step in turning that vision into reality. The project will create opportunities and experiences for our students and staff that go far beyond what is currently possible.

“Project Catalyst also marks the next stage in the College’s growth. With the launch of our innovative STEM-focussed GCSE Programme in 2027, we will be able to inspire and support talented young mathematicians and scientists even earlier in their educational journey.”

Annabel Lait, Director at Saunders:

“The proposals for the sustainable retrofit of Greenwood House respond directly to the College’s ambitious brief: to create an environment that reflects and supports its exceptional culture of teaching and academic achievement.

“Organised around a top-lit central atrium, the scheme creates a highly connected learning environment, with laboratories, maker spaces, specialist classrooms, recording studios and breakout study areas brought together as part of a visible academic community.

“By revealing the building’s structure and services where appropriate, the design turns the retrofit itself into part of the educational experience, while supporting the wider sustainability benefits of reusing and reimagining an existing building.”

Graham Shaw, Chief Operating Officer at AIS:

“We are delighted that AIS has been chosen to deliver this landmark project for The National Mathematics and Science College.

“At its heart, this project is about giving students the best possible environment to discover and deepen their passion for science and mathematics. Our whole team is proud to be part of creating that environment.”

The professional team includes Ashfold Management Services as Project Manager; Saunders as Architect; Huntley Cartwright as Cost Consultant; Webb Yates as Mechanical and Electrical Engineer; Elliott Wood as Structural Engineer and Sustainability Consultant; Cundall as Fire Consultant; Gillieron Scott Acoustic Design as Acoustic Consultant; and Vista BS as Principal Designer.

Project Catalyst is expected to become a central part of the College’s future identity: a place designed not only to support NatMatSci’s work, but to express its belief that STEM is everywhere.

To find out more about Project Catalyst, visit: https://natmatsci.ac.uk/catalyst