How we build modular schools that grow with their students

Zo bouwen we modulaire scholen die meegroeien met de leerlingen

Education demands buildings that are flexible, future-proof, and quickly deployable. Schools often face fluctuating student numbers, evolving teaching methods, and increasing requirements for sustainable construction. Traditional building methods often cannot provide the speed and flexibility required. That is why modular construction offers the perfect solution: schools that grow with their students and the education of tomorrow.

Flexible and scalable educational facilities

With modular construction, school buildings are made up of individual units that can be easily combined, expanded, or relocated. This makes them ideal for the education sector, where flexibility and scalability are essential.
 
  • Expansion during growth: When student numbers rise, new classrooms can be added quickly.
  • Downsizing when needed: If enrollment decreases, units can be removed and reused elsewhere.
  • Future-ready: The building evolves alongside the needs of the school and the community.
 
This ensures that school facilities remain aligned with the current situation without costly renovations or long periods of vacancy.

Speed without compromise

One of the greatest advantages of modular construction is its short lead time. While foundations and utilities are being prepared on-site, production of the units takes place simultaneously in the factory. This drastically shortens construction time on location.

As a result, schools can be ready to use within just a few weeks—fully functional, safe, and modern. And all this without compromising on quality, comfort, or design.

Project example: Modular primary school in Ter Apel

A strong example is the temporary primary school in Ter Apel, built by Van den Nagel Modular Construction on behalf of the Municipality of Westerwolde.
 
  • Location: Ter Apel
  • Client: Municipality of Westerwolde
  • Delivery: Q1 2024
  • Scope: 24 units, 400 m²
  • Capacity: approx. 100 students
 
After the permit design phase, the school was completed and delivered in just six weeks. The building meets all legal requirements, is energy-neutral thanks to features such as a heat pump, and radiates a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
 
In addition to the school itself, we also developed the entire outdoor area—including parking spaces, bicycle storage, and playgrounds—in close cooperation with the municipality and stakeholders. Everything was ready for use upon delivery.

Within six weeks, we delivered an energy-neutral primary school in Ter Apel with 24 modular units for 100 students.

Sustainable and future-proof

Modular schools are not just about speed and flexibility—they are also about sustainability. The modular structure ensures that materials and units can be reused, keeping environmental impact to a minimum. Energy-efficient systems, high-quality insulation, and smart design solutions make these schools ready for the future.

Educational buildings that adapt

With modular construction, we create school buildings that grow with their students and their communities. They provide the speed needed to meet urgent demands, the flexibility to adapt to change, and the sustainability that aligns with today’s and tomorrow’s ambitions.

At Van den Nagel Modular Construction, we are proud to show with projects such as the Ter Apel primary school how modular building helps education move forward.

Contact us

Modular school construction means that a school is built from prefabricated units produced in a factory. These units can be quickly assembled, expanded, or relocated on-site. This creates a flexible and future-proof building that grows along with the students.

A modular school can often be delivered within just a few weeks. While the foundation and utilities are prepared on-site, the units are simultaneously produced in the factory. This makes the construction process much faster than traditional building methods.

Yes, modular schools are highly sustainable. The units are reusable and can easily be adapted to new needs. In addition, energy-efficient systems, high-quality insulation, and sustainable materials are applied to minimize environmental impact.

Yes, that is one of the main advantages of modular construction. If the number of students decreases, units can be removed and relocated elsewhere. This way, school housing always matches the current demand.

Absolutely. Modular schools fully comply with all legal standards and requirements for safety, comfort, and appearance. They are indistinguishable from traditionally built schools, while offering greater flexibility and speed.

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