This conversion and extension of existing accommodation creates a new space for additional year intake and community provision including sports, drama, music and information technology facilities. The local authority was committed to creating an exemplar of sustainable construction.

The building has been designed with:

• An airtight construction of prefabricated timber wall and roof panels

• Triple glazed windows

• High levels of recycled insulation

• Shading from hot summer sun whilst allowing maximum controlled daylight

• An innovative ‘Termodeck’ environmental control system

The building is heated by passing warm ventilation air through the pre-cast concrete structure which acts as a very low temperature radiator. In summer, cool air is drawn through the structure at night therefore providing cool air on a hot summer’s day.