LST Projects recently completed the transformation of Vickers Hall at Bishopsgate Prep School, creating a new performing arts theatre for the school community.
Following handover, the LST Projects team returned to see the finished space in action. Natasha Fisher, Marketing and Business Development Manager at LST Projects, visited the school to meet with Bursar Charles Carver and experience the theatre first-hand.
During the visit, the theatre was being used for a school assembly and awards ceremony, providing a great opportunity to see the space filled with students, staff and parents enjoying the occasion together.
Charles shared how the theatre is already becoming a central part of school life, explaining how the different areas of the building support a wide range of uses. From the control deck, where students and staff manage lighting and audio-visual production, to the adaptable stage layouts and backdrops designed to support different types of performances, the space has been carefully designed to encourage creativity and participation across all year groups.
The project involved transforming the existing sports hall into a dedicated performing arts theatre. Vickers Hall has been refurbished to create a flexible performance space, complete with retractable bleacher seating for up to 340 people, allowing the room to easily adapt for performances, assemblies and events.
A new control deck gantry has been installed and fitted with a full audio-visual production system, while specialist acoustic wall treatments ensure the space performs to theatre standards. The building’s mechanical and electrical services were also comprehensively upgraded, including the installation of a full lighting grid suitable for professional-style productions.
The existing foyer area was refurbished as part of the works, enhancing the arrival experience for visitors attending school events and performances.
Externally, the hall façade was upgraded with a combination of brick slip cladding and through-coloured render, while existing cladding was redecorated. Additional improvements included upgraded entrance doors and enhancements to the blockwork elevations.
The project was negotiated and procured under a JCT Design and Build contract, with LST Projects responsible for developing the design from Stage 4 through to completion. Due to the technical nature of the theatre installations, close collaboration with specialist subcontractors, including acoustic and audio-visual consultants, ensured the space met the required performance specifications.
Reflecting on the completed project, Charles Carver commented:
“LST has once again delivered another fantastic space for the school, adding huge value to the school allowing us to put on performances, displays and exhibitions of both music and art. We are really appreciative of this space. It has transformed the old sports hall into an amazing theatre.”
This project continues the strong relationship between LST Projects and Bishopsgate Prep School. Around five years ago, LST completed the school’s multi-use sports hall – a facility designed not only for students and staff, but also for the wider community. The building includes flexible activity spaces used by external businesses and clubs, alongside a fully fitted gym that parents can access through a monthly membership.
Seeing the new theatre already being used and enjoyed by the school community highlights the impact well-designed educational spaces can have. Supporting creativity, bringing people together and providing facilities that will benefit the school for many years to come.
