ABBOTSFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT
Innovative Construction Delivers New Learning Spaces at Abbotsford Middle School

Students at Abbotsford Middle School are benefiting from a newly completed two-storey expansion that showcases innovative construction methods designed to deliver school capacity faster, more efficiently, and with minimal disruption.

Left to right: Greg Forbes-King, Director of Facilities & Transportation; Dr. Nathan Ngieng, Superintendent of Schools ; Heather Reid, Principal, Abbotsford Middle School; Stan Petersen, Chair, Abbotsford Board of Education

As part of a provincial pilot led by the Ministry of Infrastructure, the $12 million expansion added eight new classrooms and created space for 200 additional students. The project demonstrates how alternative construction approaches can improve timelines and quality while meeting growing enrolment demands.

The expansion used exterior prefabricated concrete wall panels manufactured off-site and installed directly onto the building foundation. Panels were lifted into place by crane and welded to a steel frame, forming a strong and durable structure. Installation of the exterior walls was completed in just two days, allowing the project to move from start to near completion in approximately nine and one- half months.

This construction approach enhances quality control, significantly shortens build timelines, and reduces disruption in an active school environment. It highlights how provincial infrastructure investments can support the timely delivery of school facilities while addressing long-term capacity and community needs.

In addition to new classrooms, the expansion includes new corridors, student lockers, and upgraded HVAC systems to support a modern, comfortable learning environment.

"We are grateful for the Ministry's investment in school infrastructure and for the opportunity to participate in this provincial pilot," said Dr. Nathan Ngieng, Superintendent of Schools. "These investments allow us to deliver high-quality learning spaces more efficiently, while minimizing disruption in active school environments and supporting long-term facility needs."

The Abbotsford Middle School project is one of several recent ministry-funded capital investments in the district. Two additional school expansions at Auguston Traditional and Margaret Stenersen elementary schools added a combined 360 new student seats. These projects also enabled the creation of 226 new licensed childcare spaces, helping to support families and strengthen access to early learning across the community.

View a timelapse video of the project on YouTube, here.