Apollo Fire Detectors Soteria range of detectors has been chosen to protect the prestigious Darrick Wood School in Orpington, Kent. The school is rated by Ofsted as ‚outstanding‘ and achieved the ‚World Class Schools Quality Mark‘ in 2015.
The fire detection system was upgraded as part of a wider program of works which saw the school invest in a new dining hall, a Movement and Performing Arts Building with specialist drama and music rooms and new PE changing rooms. Many of these new buildings encompass large open areas with high ceilings and interconnected spaces, which presented a challenge for the project‘s fire detection system designer, Triple Star Fire and Security.
Built in 1975, Darrick Wood School has been extended over the years and the existing fire detection system was in need of an upgrade. The installation of a brand new system to protect the pupils, staff and visitors using the most recently added school buildings provided an opportunity to upgrade some parts of the existing system. The existing and new fire systems will be fully integrated to ensure compatibility across the school. To avoid any disruption to pupils and staff during term time, all installation and upgrade work on the systems took place during the school holidays. The main building contractor, Ammcass Group, appointed local experts Triple Star Fire and Security to design and install the new fire detection system, using Apollo‘s detectors.

A Lesson in Fire Safety
Explaining the choices made at Darrick Wood School, Daren Pool, Managing Director of Triple Star, said: „Soteria was the ideal product for this large school. With this advanced technology available, we are able to offer superior reliability of detection and reduction of false alarms – exactly the features required in this environment.“ Almost 100 devices were fitted at Darrick Wood, including manual call points and interfaces along with bells and strobes designed for the school environment. The system is managed by two Advanced MX5 control panels – one located in the main reception area and the other in the sports center reception. The system is programmed to operate a ‚one out, all out‘ procedure in the event of a fire being detected.
Graham Field, Premises Manager at Darrick Wood School, commented: „The installation of the new fire protection system went smoothly during the holidays so that we could proudly open the new buildings and provide the pupils with enhanced facilities. It was reassuring to have the latest Soteria technology installed. We‘re very happy with the modern aesthetics of the devices and are confident that the school‘s fire protection is future-proofed for the years ahead.“