Calderdale College had previously recognised that a major constraint upon its future progress and development was its existing building stock, which no longer had the necessary flexibility in use, quality of environment or ability to project the College’s image and vision into the future. The College wanted an engaging learning environment that would enable them to maintain and enhance their record of achievement well into the 21st century, but also a building that was wholeheartedly sustainable.

Jefferson Sheard’s architectural response is a BREEAM rated ‘Excellent’, future-proofed centre of construction excellence that at once serves the students’ practical needs and acts as a case study of sustainable construction in itself.

Rigorous attention has been given to the sustainable design of the building. Low carbon technologies such as photovoltaics, solar water heating, rainwater harvesting, wind catcher ventilation and wind turbines enable the centre to function without having an adverse effect on the environment.