Hovingham School Restoration

Client: The Hovingham Estate

Location: Hovingham, North Yorkshire

Duration: 10 weeks

Value: Confidential

Services:

• Lead Roofing
• Slate Roofing
• Conservation Detailing
• Rainwater Goods Refurbishment.
• Masonry repairs.
• Clock restoration.
• Bell Tower leadwork and refurbishment.

GNR Roofing Services was appointed as the principal contractor for the restoration of the historic roof at Hovingham School, a Grade II-listed structure with significant heritage value. The scope of work included a full strip and re-cover of the main roof slopes, utilising new natural Westmorland slate and BS EN 12588-certified rolled lead sheet for valleys, flashings, and bell tower plus a sizeable bay window detail.

All leadwork was designed and installed in accordance with BS 6915 and LSTA Guidelines, with substrates brought up to BS 6229 standards. Our in-house conservation team carefully replicated original details while integrating modern performance standards. Works also included the fabrication and installation of bespoke cast iron gutters and downpipes, replacing aging rainwater systems.

We provided full specifications, RAMS, and heritage method statements in compliance with local authority and conservation body requirements. Throughout the project, we worked closely with the client, architect, and church representatives to ensure minimal disruption to scheduled services and community events.

This project showcased GNR’s ability to balance technical expertise, regulatory compliance, and traditional craftsmanship—delivering a resilient and visually faithful restoration on time and within budget.

The project also involved a number of isolated stone repairs which were carried out by our team in conjunction with the main body of the building envelope repair.

Further, the clock was also refurbished as part of the scheme to bring the project to a conclusion.

More about the Building 

Hovingham Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School was a historic educational institution situated in the village of Hovingham, North Yorkshire. Established in 1864, the school served generations of local children and was deeply integrated into the fabric of the community. Its close association with the nearby All Saints’ Church underscored its Christian ethos, while maintaining an inclusive environment welcoming children of all faiths or none.

Architecturally, the school and the attached teacher’s house were constructed from stone with Welsh slate roofs, featuring distinctive elements such as trefoil-headed windows and an inscribed entrance plaque. An extension added in 1880 provided additional classroom space. The building’s historical and architectural significance was recognized with a Grade II listing in 1987.

In 2015, Hovingham Primary School federated with St. Hilda’s CEVC Primary School in Ampleforth, sharing leadership and governance to enhance educational opportunities for pupils. Despite these efforts, declining enrolment became a pressing issue. The school operated with fewer than 40 pupils for over a decade, and by May 2022, the number had dwindled to just seven, all in Key Stage 2. By September 2022, there were no pupils on roll, prompting North Yorkshire County Council to propose the school’s closure. The closure was finalized on 31 March 2023, despite local objections and a campaign to save the school. 

The building’s future is under consideration, with proposals to repurpose it for community use, ensuring that this historic structure continues to serve the village of Hovingham in a new capacity.