The Oasis Academy, Sholing in Southampton has recently opened its new PE block, a major enhancement to the school’s facilities aimed at supporting both educational and community needs. Located on Middle Road, the project began in May 2023 and was completed in August 2024. Ascia Construction was the main contractor on the new build, working in close collaboration with architects and planners to ensure a practical, high-quality outcome.

The new block features a purpose-built sports hall designed to accommodate a wide range of physical activities. It also includes a modern reception area and office space, creating a functional and welcoming environment for students, staff, and visitors. The sports hall is designed to be flexible, serving not only as a space for physical education but also as a venue for assemblies, school events, and community gatherings.

A key architectural feature of the building is its exterior, which incorporates over 380 square metres of Valcan Ceramapanel fibre cement cladding. Ceramapanel is a non-combustible, A1-rated material known for its durability, low maintenance, and environmental sustainability. It offers excellent sound dampening and is available in a wide range of colours and finishes, including Natural Contour Lines Raw Cappuccino, Touch Linen, Rain Cloud, and Light Slate.

The panels are pre-squared for efficient installation and have a life expectancy of over 60 years, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for modern construction. The cladding was installed by CSW Cladding using ProcellaPro sheathing board and the VitraFix cladding subframe system. ProcellaPro is a high-performance, A1 fire-rated fibre cement board made with cellulose fibres for structural strength. It is resistant to moisture, insects, and fungal attacks, and offers excellent acoustic dampening. Its low absorbency and easy on-site cutting make it ideal for efficient and precise installation.

VitraFix is a non-combustible aluminium subframe system designed for secure and versatile cladding installation. It is lightweight, modular, and compatible with various panel types, including secret-fix systems. The system uses high-grade aluminium fixings, ensuring long-term durability and compliance with safety standards such as BS8414 and CWCT. VitraFix also supports project-specific calculations and offers options for custom bracket sizes and coated profiles to meet specific design requirements.

Together, these materials contribute to a safe, robust and visually appealing exterior that complements the building’s purpose and enhances its presence within the school and the surrounding community.