The EcoLab

Newent Community School and Sixth Form Centre built a new Science Laboratory which open in 2007.

Instead of a conventional build, we aimed for a sustainable construction:

• Photovoltaic installations and wind turbines will be used to generate some (if not all) of the electricity
• Display panels of electricity meters will be installed to provide a visible reminder to all occupants of energy generated by sustainable means
• A sedum roof with skylights, and other sustainable building technologies are features of this construction

How has the EcoLab been designed?

• Students, parents and staff were all given the opportunity to contribute thoughts as to the design of the laboratory
• Over 600 students responded to a questionnaire, the ideas produced have been incorporated into the project design

What was the EcoLab built with?

Every effort was made to build the Ecolab with sustainable / recycled materials. Download the materials breakdown below.

What is the EcoLab used for?

There is a dry area (teaching zone), which reflects a traditional classroom, and a wet area, where practical work can be carried out. There is also a facility to isolate the wet area so that the dry area can be safely used out of school hours for community purposes; the local Nature Watch group has already approached us with a view to using the facility.

• Where have the furnishings come from?
• Desks and benching for the EcoLab were reclaimed from our own laboratory refurbishments
• Extra tables and chairs have been reclaimed from the Cheltenham Ladies College
• Artwork for the EcoLab was created by students attending our Art Summer School