Case Study

Net-Zero Classroom Block at Solihull Sixth Form

Building type: Education | Classrooms
Project price: £2.3m
Completion date: 2024

TG Escapes has completed the Turvey Building at Solihull Sixth Form College in Solihull, Birmingham, providing a home for A-level psychology students in partnership with The Summit Learning Trust.

Designed to meet modern educational needs while prioritising sustainability, the building reflects the College’s commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the learning experience and better outcomes. Named after Malcolm Turvey, a teacher who dedicated 44 years to the College, the building honours his legacy.

Completed in just seven months, this new building houses eight classrooms for A-Level Psychology, alongside office spaces, storage, and modern toilet facilities. The Turvey Building integrates sustainable technologies, such as air source heat pumps, solar panels, LED lighting, and natural ventilation, ensuring it operates at net-zero energy. A fabric-first approach reduces energy loss, with high-performance insulation materials used throughout. Full-height windows allow ample natural light to illuminate the classrooms, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the learning experience. Solar shading, including brise soleil, optimises energy consumption and maintains comfort. Achieving an SBEM A+ (-1) rating, the building is certified as carbon-neutral in regulated energy use.

We asked Steve Smith, Estates and Facilities Director, about their TG Escapes building:

How or where did you first hear about TG Escapes?
Barkers Associates and The Trust Network

Why did you want to develop additional space?
Increased spaces to provide wider access to post 16 applicants

What made TG Escapes stand out from other providers?
Net Zero ethos, flexibility and fast response

What are the biggest benefits you have noticed for the pupils and staff?
Great new sustainable environment which enables outstanding teaching and learning

''Excellent - great working partnership. Sustainability ethos matches ours. Looking forward to working together again on net zero projects''
Steve Smith
Estates Director, Summit Learning Trust