When St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Derby was destroyed by arson, the challenge to rebuild was met with innovation, speed, and sustainability. Delivered in just 12 weeks using structural insulated panel (SIP) technology, the new school is believed to be the UK’s first purpose-built biophilic primary school and was named Best Education Project at the 2024 Structural Timber Awards, a category proudly sponsored by PEFC UK.
Delivering Nature-Inspired, Low-Carbon Education
Led by Innovaré Offsite, the project formed part of a Department for Education eco pilot scheme. The school’s new design prioritises low embodied carbon, enhanced fire safety, and a natural connection to the outdoors — all underpinned by sustainable construction methods.
Using its Psi-FAST SIP system, Innovaré Offsite created a high-performance structure that supports rapid delivery and long-term energy efficiency. Main contractor Tilbury Douglas completed the build, with architects Hawkins\Brown designing a net zero in operation building where planting is brought close to classrooms, creating spaces for play, sanctuary, and exploration.
Beyond the practical build, the school is also acting as a live testbed — with ongoing research into the impact of its biophilic design on pupils and staff.
Sustainable Construction in Practice
- Fast-tracked delivery using SIP technology
- Low embodied carbon structure
- Net zero in operation
- Focus on fire safety and performance
- Use of responsibly sourced timber
Timber at the Heart of Innovation
The 2024 awards also celebrated a landmark moment with the Timber Icon of the Decade accolade. This special recognition went to the Believe in Better Building on Sky’s campus in West London — a standout mass engineered timber development.
The three-storey glulam and CLT structure, delivered by B&K Structures and Arup, set a precedent for sustainable commercial design. The building was designed with a 15% reduction in embodied carbon, 27% recycled content, and the use of PEFC-certified timber in line with Sky’s responsible sourcing policy.
A Word from PEFC UK
“Congratulations to all those shortlisted for this year’s Structural Timber Awards. The level of innovation and expertise across every category was inspiring,” said John Kirkby, Executive Director at PEFC UK.
“Innovaré Offsite’s work at St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy is an excellent example of how timber technology can be used to create safe, healthy, and inspiring places to learn. We were also pleased to see PEFC-certified timber at the centre of Sky’s iconic Believe in Better Building — a powerful demonstration of what sustainable construction can achieve.”
Celebrating Excellence in Timber
The Structural Timber Awards showcase the best in timber design, technology, and construction across the UK. The Best Education Project category highlights outstanding use of timber to create innovative, inclusive and low-carbon spaces for learning.
