New School Building Opens

On Thursday 15th April, Kier handed over the completed 10,000m² new school to Lydiate Learning Trust and Deyes High School. The modern building spans three floors and boasts a host of state-of-the-art facilities, including high-tech classrooms, specialist science laboratories, a learning resource centre, an art studio and a multi-use games area.

The new building is net zero carbon in operation, with photovoltaic panels for solar power, hybrid natural vent units and three air source heat pumps.

The school grounds will include large playing fields and sports pitches, a wildlife garden, a nature trail, and a habitat area to support learning and promote wellbeing for its 1,400 students.

Construction of the new school commenced in August 2022. The next phase of the project involves the demolition of the old school buildings, scheduled to begin later this month.

Sarah Morton, regional director at Kier Construction North and Scotland, said: “We are thrilled to have successfully delivered this fantastic net zero carbon school for the Department for Education and the local Deyes High School community. Net Zero is high on everyone’s agenda, and we are proud to have incorporated sustainable design features into this new facility.”

Victoria Beaney, Head of School, Deyes High School, commented: “Our state-of-the-art new school looks amazing and will allow us to combine our tradition of academic excellence and teaching innovation to engage, empower and enable our students. The new building is a fantastic flagship school for our community, and we look forward to welcoming our students to the start of summer term today.”

Ann Stahler, CEO, Lydiate Learning Trust, said: “The new school building will provide pupils with an innovative learning environment featuring the latest digital technologies. Our team has worked closely with Kier and the Department for Education to create an inspirational and sustainable build design which will serve future generations of learners. This project is a hugely exciting opportunity for Lydiate Learning Trust, Deyes High School, and our local community. Thank you to everyone involved.”

Student Lily-May from Year 8 said: “The new build is a fantastic opportunity for students because the bright, modern building will motivate us and improve our learning.”

Throughout the project Kier has prioritised bringing additional value to the local community through job opportunities and working with a local supply chain. This has included the creation of a variety of apprenticeship opportunities throughout the build, a significant proportion of the project value being procured through local businesses and volunteering and donation initiatives with local charities and organisations.

Having handed over the project, Kier is now keen to support the Trust as they occupy and operate their new building to ensure its in use energy performance matches the design criteria. All work, including the construction of new sports facilities, is expected to be completed by Spring 2025.