)
)
)
One of the UK’s first net-zero primary schools
Seven Stars Primary School and Nursery in Leyland, Lancashire, has opened its doors to pupils following the completion of one of the UK’s first net-zero carbon in operation primary school buildings. Delivered by Conlon Construction for the Department for Education (DfE), the project replaces a school that supported the local community for more than five decades and marks an important step forward in the delivery of sustainable education buildings across the UK.
The school held an official opening ceremony attended by representatives from South Ribble Borough Council, school governors, staff, pupils, and the Conlon team. The two-storey, 1,671m² building has been designed and constructed to meet the DfE’s net zero carbon in operation standards, placing it among the first 50 schools nationwide to achieve this benchmark. Its delivery reflects the growing focus on low-carbon school design and the wider adoption of digital construction processes to enhance efficiency, performance, and long-term sustainability.
Seven Stars now accommodates 210 pupils across eight classrooms, ranging from Early Years to Year 6, alongside two specialist classrooms designed for children with special educational needs. A multi-use hall provides space for physical education, assemblies, dining, and community activities. The layout aligns with modern educational design principles prioritising accessibility, inclusion, and environmental performance.
Carbon-reduction goalsSustainability measures are embedded throughout the scheme, supporting the DfE’s net zero framework and contributing to wider carbon-reduction goals within the UK sustainable construction sector. Features include green roofs, solar panels, air source heat pumps, passive ventilation systems, and high-performance insulation. The building operates without fossil fuels for heating or hot water, reducing energy demand and supporting long-term operational efficiency.
External works include a central playground, dedicated Early Years and SEN play areas, outdoor learning spaces, new play equipment, and a habitat zone with a pond to encourage biodiversity. A new car park with electric vehicle charging points supports the school’s transition to low-carbon transport and reinforces the development’s net zero strategy. These elements create a cohesive environment that supports learning, wellbeing, and connection to nature.
Sustainable constructionConlon Construction appointed a local supply chain for the project, engaging Bowker Sadler Architecture, Bowker Building Services Engineers for MEP, Pete Marquis Contractors for groundworks, and Taylor Decorating Contractors. This approach supports regional economic activity while enabling the project team to apply proven expertise in sustainable construction, digital coordination, and education-sector delivery.
Pupil engagement formed a notable part of the programme. Students took part in supervised site activities, including laying bricks and observing crane lifts, helping introduce concepts related to construction, engineering, and sustainability. Conlon’s site mascot also attended assemblies to help increase awareness of safe working practices and the principles behind net-zero primary school construction.
Low-carbon designSeven Stars Primary School’s headteacher, Mike Mitchell, welcomed the outcome and highlighted the benefits the new building will provide for current pupils and future generations. Conlon Construction’s commercial director, Darren Lee, emphasised the collaborative nature of the project and the long-term value of delivering a net-zero carbon in operation school for the Leyland community.
Conlon will remain on site to complete the final phase of works, including the demolition of the former junior building and the construction of a multi-use games area, due for completion next year. The project reinforces the role of digital construction and low-carbon design in shaping the next generation of education facilities and demonstrates how net-zero schools can be delivered at scale across the UK.
Source Image/Source: Simon Foulds
London Build is the UK's largest and leading construction show. Featuring 450+ Exhibitors, 900+ Speakers across 17 CPD Conference Stages, 25,000+ Attendees, Networking Parties, Meet the Buyers, DJs, entertainment and so much more. Don’t miss out on free tickets.