Archaeological monitoring and recording was undertaken by Colchester Archaeological Trust during the groundworks for the new science wing and facade in 2016 (CBC planning application 160833, demolition of teaching building (Gainsborough block) and erection of replacement arts building, new science wing, enclosure of existing area with roof and facade to create multiuse space and kitchen extension). Modern build up layers (L1 and L2, c.0.5-0.6m thick, which had occasionally been stripped off in advance) sealed a subsoil layer (L3, c.0.3-0.6m thick) and, below this, natural sand (L4). No archaeological finds or features were identified. The groundworks associated with the demolition of the Gainsborough block, the new arts block and the kitchen extension were not monitored (CAT was not notified of the works).<1>