New Line Learning Academy and Tiger Primary School

Background 

The Future Schools Trust commissioned a major expansion at New Line Learning Academy and Tiger Primary School in Maidstone, Kent. The project  involves  constructing a standalone performing arts building,  new music  classrooms, general classrooms, dedicated practice rooms, and a multi-purpose hall for Tiger Primary School.  

Anderson Acoustics was commissioned by The Design Collective to  provide air quality and acoustic consultancy services in support of the planning and design stages. 

Challenge 

The project faces  several technical and regulatory challenges: 

• Acoustic Performance:  Ensuring  optimal  sound insulation and room acoustics for diverse spaces, including performance halls, music classrooms, and general teaching areas, while  complying with  Building Bulletin 93 (BB93), School Premises Regulations, and BREEAM requirements; 
• Noise Impact:  Safeguarding the amenity of nearby residential receptors and internal spaces from plant and environmental noise, in line with local authority guidance and BREEAM Pol 05; 
• Air Quality:  Achieving excellent indoor and outdoor air quality, minimizing exposure to pollutants, and meeting BREEAM Hea 02 credits, especially given the proximity to residential areas and local air quality management zones.

What We Did 

Acoustic Design & Strategy 

• Developed a comprehensive acoustic strategy, including baseline noise surveys, 3D acoustic  modelling, and detailed specifications for sound insulation, reverberation control, and building envelope design; 
• Proposed  hybrid ventilation systems in music and general classrooms to  maintain  sound insulation while providing adequate fresh air, avoiding reliance on open windows that could compromise acoustic performance; 
• Specified high-performance absorptive finishes (Class A and C panels), enhanced door and wall constructions, and anti-vibration mounts for plant equipment; 
• Provided tailored solutions for spaces with special educational needs (SEND), including options for improved reverberation times and assistive listening systems.  

Noise Impact Assessment 

• Conducted environmental noise surveys and set plant noise criteria to ensure compliance with BREEAM Pol 05 and local authority standards; 
• Modelled  plant noise emissions and recommended acoustic enclosures and screening for rooftop and external plant to protect both internal spaces and nearby residences.  

Air Quality Management 

• Undertook a full air quality assessment, referencing local  authority  monitoring  data, DEFRA background maps, and site-specific traffic and industrial sources; 
• Specified  a hybrid ventilation strategy with CO₂ and air quality sensors, demand-controlled ventilation, and filtration systems to minimize pollutant ingress; 
• Recommended  low-VOC and formaldehyde-compliant materials and finishes, and robust construction-phase controls, including pre-occupancy flush-out and post-construction air quality testing.  

Conclusion 

• All teaching and performance spaces  are expected to  meet or exceed BB93 and BREEAM standards for sound insulation, ambient noise, and reverberation time. Enhanced acoustic conditions support both mainstream and SEND students, with flexible solutions for future needs; 
• Noise Compliance:  Plant and environmental noise impacts  to be  fully mitigated, ensuring the comfort of building users and  neighbouring  residents. The project is compliant with BREEAM Pol 05 and local authority requirements; 
• Air Quality:  Indoor and outdoor air quality at the site is well within national  objectives, with a ‘low risk’ of dust and pollutant exposure during construction and operation. The building  will be  designed for ongoing air quality monitoring and maintenance, supporting occupant health and wellbeing.  

Project Progress 

Maidstone Borough Council granted permission for the proposal subject to planning conditions on 2nd  September 2025.