Yarm School, North Yorkshire

Project team: Associated Architects, Shire Structural Engineers, LEDA

Founded by a group of parents in 1978, Yarm School takes pride in its eco-credentials and creative learning environment. Between 2008 and 2011, the school invested £20 million in a redevelopment programme to expand and update its riverside campus.

The works included a new-build theatre and classroom wing, three-storey teaching block, state-of-the-art kitchen and dining room, refurbishment of the fitness suite, dance studios and music suites. LEDA was selected to work with the architects and structural engineers to develop and implement the masterplan behind the redevelopment, providing strategic environmental advice, in depth energy analysis and detailed building services’ design.

Award-winning riverside campus featuring low energy LEAN design

In the resulting design, the classrooms are naturally ventilated and heating provided by a 100 kW ground source heat pump. We worked with the rest of the design team to keep the project within budget, with mechanical and electrical services delivered below typical costs, while maintaining performance and quality through use of LEAN designs. We also helped the school make a successful grant application for the proposed renewable energy installations.

The final phase saw LEDA working with Associated Architects to provide new nursery facilities. This new building is designed with high levels of daylight, providing most of the light required during the day, and high levels of insulation. The building has underfloor heating, fed from a central gas boiler, and lighting is provided by sleek, modern fittings that are daylight linked. The double height circulation space and organic shapes all contribute to the light, airy feel.

The buildings have won RIBA and LABC awards recognising excellence in design, construction and efficiency.

Technical Data

Client:	Yarm School, Teeside
Services Provided:	Renewable energy feasibility and sustainability, MEP design
Dates:	September 2008 – August 2011
Contract Value:	£13.9m (approximate)
Technologies and Unique Features:	heat pumps, low energy lean design, detailed design