Kier completes construction of net zero carbon Deyes High School

Deyes High School in Maghull has recently moved into a brand new net zero carbon building.

The school was selected as one of the first fifty UK schools to receive investment from the Department for Education’s (DfE) School Rebuilding Programme, which carries out major rebuilding and refurbishment projects at school and sixth form college buildings across the country.

The DfE said that buildings are prioritised according to their condition.

UK infrastructure services, construction and property group, Kier, finished the 10,000m² school for 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 (used to produce electricity directly from sunlight), 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 and has been completed on time and within budget. The next phase of the project involves the demolition of the old school buildings, scheduled to begin later this month.

Victoria Beaney, head of school at 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 of 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.”

Kier is keen to support Lydiate Learning 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.

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.”