Girl using an exercise ball

Fitness Facilities

Unlocking potential through dynamic fitness facilities

Dynamic fitness facilities: A new gym to support fitness, strength, and recreational activities.

Solihull School has a strong reputation for sporting success but our current facilities no longer reflect the importance we place on this area of school life. Over the last 12 months, we’ve developed a plan to invest in our sports infrastructure, with a top priority being a much-needed new gym. Since the old gym burned down over ten years ago, the mezzanine space in the sports hall has served as a temporary solution but is no longer fit for purpose.

Artists impression of the converted squash courts
Artists impression of the converted squash courts.

New gym: Enhancing sports and fitness

The new gym will support strength and conditioning for all competitive sports: netball, hockey rugby and cricket, as well as cardiovascular and recreational fitness activities. We will repurpose the area currently occupied by the squash courts, which only can only ever accommodate 6 pupils at a time. The new gym will span two floors, making full use of the building’s height and will accommodate up to 75 pupils simultaneously. It will feature two light airy spaces with stunning views over the playing fields through new plate-glass windows and will cater for wide-ranging activities such as spin classes, indoor rowing, free weights/athletic development, yoga and dance.

Design and equipment

We have consulted with our retained architect, Ian Brinksman, who has provided detailed drawings for the project. We will also go out to tender with various fitness companies to supply the necessary equipment.

Project costs

The total cost of the project is £1.5 million, including VAT. The school has earmarked £500,000 for this work and will need to fundraise the remaining £1 million to proceed.

Construction timeline

Building work is expected to take around six months, starting as soon as the library project is complete.

Aligning with school priorities

This modern facility aligns with the school’s priorities of achieving sporting success and fostering lifelong habits of exercise and health. Every pupil will have lessons in the new gym and every team will benefit from dedicated strength and conditioning sessions. This project represents a creative and innovative repurposing of an underused part of our estate, bringing new life to our sports infrastructure and offering significant benefits to every pupil.

Join us in shaping the future

From our beginnings as a humble free grammar school in Solihull to our current 85 acres across two exceptional campuses, ambition and aspiration have always been at our core. For nearly 500 years, pioneering founders, visionary governance and inspiring teaching have been the lifeblood of our school. Our community has consistently risen to every fundraising challenge, demonstrating a deep commitment to our shared mission.

As we present these exciting projects and plans, we invite you to be part of this legacy. The enhancements we propose will benefit every pupil, aligning with our goals to be academic, ambitious, confident, well-known, innovative and creative.

We warmly encourage you to join us in this endeavor. Your contribution will make a significant impact and continue the proud tradition of giving at Solihull. Be a part of this transformative journey and help us shape the future for every student.

Make your gift today and be a part of Solihull’s enduring legacy.

Giving opportunities