Callerton Academy

TGA are providing mechanical and electrical building services engineering for this new Build Secondary School which consists of a multi-use three-storey building built around a central core – including teaching facilities, a flexible space for dining, assemblies and an administration area, as well as TGA’s Building Performance Team being tasked with achieving Net Zero Carbon.

Project Summary

Similar to any project, there were a few more challenging aspects, such as the programme itself including fast-paced design stages, incorporating DfE, MACE and CEM process. The solution included allocating significant local resource and following a detailed schedule of deliverables.

TGA are following the Technical Annexes, which are the DfE’s Employer Requirements that all projects under the 2021 School Rebuilding and Free Schools programme must comply with. TGA consistently reviewed and ensured understanding of the revised DfE requirements including regular sessions with the DfE Technical Advisors. Collaboration with the design team and main contractor were extremely important through regular design reviews, coordination workshops and CEM’s.

The solution included allocating significant local resource and following a detailed schedule of deliverables.

TGA’s Building Performance engineers focused and advised on a more thermally efficient building, with improved fabric performance and improved energy efficiency to drive a reduced energy use intensity in comparison to benchmark figures efficiency to drive a reduced energy use intensity in comparison to benchmark figures.

Aiming for Net Zero Carbon, Callerton Academy will have a green roof, which in addition to housing solar panels, is planted with grass, moss, and smaller plants, enhancing its environmentally friendly features.

Adjoining the main building will be a dedicated sports facility encompassing a sports hall and changing facilities. The sports amenities are designed to operate beyond school hours, providing opportunities for the local community. Outdoor spaces include a Multi-Use Games Area, three full-size pitch areas, a running track, and a small practice pitch behind the MUGA.

With the design based on net zero carbon, the scheme should achieve this in operation. However, this can be challenging, as the intensity of energy use requires onsite energy generation. TGA’s Building Performance engineers focused and advised on a more thermally efficient building, with improved fabric performance and improved energy efficiency to drive a reduced energy use intensity in comparison to benchmark figures.

The construction, which began a few months ago, is anticipated to conclude in the summer of 2025 with the school planning to open for the 2025/26 academic year.