BAM has handed over the new Lyde Green Primary and Secondary Schools in South Gloucestershire, ahead of summer fit-out and will open to pupils in September.
The schools are the largest in England to be designed and built to Passivhaus standards, promising sustainability, world-class learning facilities and cheaper running costs for generations to come.
The 420-place primary school will be run by Castle School Education Trust[GW1.1], while the 900-place secondary school for pupils aged 11 to 16 will be run by Olympus Academy Trust. The project has received more than £58.3 million in funding, made up of almost £24 million from South Gloucestershire Council and more than £34.3 million from the Department for Education under the Free Schools Programme.
The final stage of the project will now see the schools fitted out over the summer, ready to welcome staff and pupils in September.
Delivered by BAM for South Gloucestershire Council, the new schools represent a major investment in education and sustainable public infrastructure. The Passivhaus standard is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous benchmarks for energy efficiency, thermal comfort and building quality. At Lyde Green, the approach will help create calm, comfortable and healthy classrooms, while significantly reducing energy demand and running costs.
The buildings combine a highly insulated envelope, triple-glazed windows, all-electric heating, photovoltaic panels and specialist ventilation systems to help maintain excellent air quality and comfortable temperatures throughout the year. The use of a Cross Laminated Timber frame also supports reduced heat loss and improved airtightness, while contributing to the schools’ overall sustainability credentials.
Justin Price Construction Director at BAM: “The completion of Lyde Green Community School marks a significant achievement for everyone involved. As a Passivhaus school, it demonstrates what can be accomplished when quality, sustainability and collaboration are at the heart of a project.
Justin went on to say, “The result is an exceptional learning environment that will benefit pupils, staff and the wider community for generations to come. We are proud to have worked alongside South Gloucestershire Council and our project partners to bring this vision to life”.
South Gloucestershire Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for schools, Cllr Ian Boulton, said:
“This is such an exciting moment. Long-promised and now delivered, these state-of-the-art schools will serve the Lyde Green community for generations.
“Getting this project moving after years of delays was a key priority for this council. It’s just one of many developments for our children and young people that will make a real difference to families in South Gloucestershire.
Will Roberts, Chief Executive of CSET, said: “We are excited to be moving into our new primary buildings over the summer, as we prepare to welcome additional pupils into our Reception classes this September. Our second site opens exactly ten years after we moved into the original site, and we are delighted that the school will now be able to grow over the coming years to enable all Lyde Green children to attend their local school.”
Claire Moloney-Banks, Interim CEO of Olympus, said: “This is a landmark moment for Lyde Green and a proud moment for Olympus. The handover of Lyde Green Community School marks an exciting milestone for the local community and for everyone involved in bringing this vision to life.
“We are grateful to South Gloucestershire Council, BAM and all project partners for their commitment and collaboration throughout the journey. Our team is now looking forward to welcoming our founding learners and families in September and creating a school where young people thrive academically, develop the character and life skills they need for the future, and feel a genuine sense of belonging. These exceptional facilities will provide an inspiring environment where every young person can learn, grow and succeed for generations to come.”
Source: bam.co.uk
