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The Award for Environmental Initiative, sponsored by emda, the East Midlands Developmeny Agency, recognises where architects have taken the initiative and lead in achieving sustainable low energy buildings.

Passive energy systems have been used with high thermal mass construction, concrete soffits, insitu concrete floors and internal blockwork. This is complemented by high insulation, with 750mm cavity walls, and triple glazed windows with integrated blinds.

 A series of rooflights provide quantities of natural light deep into the plan. The ventilation is mixed mode system supplying tempered air and using passive extract, including night purging and automatically controlled louvers in the classrooms.

The roof lights and the acoustic treatments have been designed as artistic features within the Atrium.The artificial lighting is PIR controlled, including in the toilets, and all operate on low energy fittings. The underfloor heating and hot water systems have sensitive controls and run on high efficiency equipment. 

Rainwater is harvested in underground tanks and used to water the sports pitches. Solar gain is controlled by overhanging eaves, deep window reveals and brise soliel. Sustainable materials include lime mortar, timber from sustainable sources, local bricks and longlife low maintenance materials e.g. zinc cladding and galvanised metal.

Although designed 3 years ago, the building has low carbon features and exceeds BREEAM excellent rating and Part L 2006. Most importantly the school finds that they are using the design of the new facilities as a teaching aid for technology, applied science and environment and design.