Thomas’s College

The project comprised of a refurbishment and reconfiguration of 4 key buildings, located within 2.1 hectares of landscaped gardens. Transforming former university buildings to create a new independent secondary school with 692 students. The site’s main Grade II listed building was built by the Methodist church in 1842, opening as the Wesleyan Theological College. Continuing to be used for education, the site later became Richmond American International University in London in 2021.

Works to the main building included extensive demolition works to all floors as well as structural works spanning from the ground floor to the 3rd floor. Our team delivered a full fitout of the third and fourth floors to create new student accommodation, while alterations to the second floor transformed a previously large, unused space into several modern classrooms. The ground floor included numerous heritage areas, requiring both structural works and specialist conservation repairs. Quinn London completed the fit-out to provide a reception, assembly hall, offices, classrooms, dining areas, a library, and accompanying kitchen.

The Cyril Taylor Library underwent a complete transformation into a three-storey science wing, with an assembly space located in the basement. This included substantial MEPH installations to support the specialist science laboratories. The Red House was refurbished to form a new three-storey sixth form building, comprising study areas, offices, and student facilities. Formerly Longley House, another building on the site was converted into a new IT suite with associated meeting rooms.

Despite social value not forming part of the tendered proposals, Quinn London were proud to deliver meaningful social value at Thomas London Day School. Highlights include the hiring of a Level 3 carpentry apprentice by YY Security, engagement with 25 South Thames College students about carpentry careers through an in-school talks, and hands-on work experience for two students over two weeks in April. Quinn London also hosted a site tour for Level 2 Carpentry students in February. The site tour gave the students a chance to safely explore the site, gain valuable insight into the restoration of a Grade II listed building, and offer a real-world perspective on carpentry in conservation projects. One student shared their thoughts on the experience:

“Thanks so much for the opportunity to see the inner workings of site carpentry in a Grade II listed building. From levelling floors to structuring in-between spaces and blending old features with a new defined look—it was truly fascinating. We were all inspired by the construction team’s stories and the possibilities for our future careers.”

The school began enrolling students in September 2025 and now offers extensive, modern educational facilities, including 59 boarding rooms, to support its growing community.

Sector

Heritage

Client

Thomas's London Day School

Value

£12.7m