TG Escapes provide net-zero timber frame building for Solihull Sixth Form College

Solihull Sixth Form College has unveiled the Turvey Building, a new facility delivered by TG Escapes, specialists in sustainable, timber frame, modular construction. Designed to meet modern educational needs while prioritising sustainability, the building reflects the College’s commitment to creating eco-friendly learning environments. Named after Malcolm Turvey, a teacher who dedicated 44 years to the College, the building honours his legacy.

To celebrate the launch of the Turvey Building the College held an official opening ceremony and welcomed a visit from the His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands Derrick Anderson CBE who said of the project: “This facility represents innovation and sustainability. His Majesty is deeply interested in developments addressing climate change, and I’m proud to support the College’s efforts to create a sustainable, high-quality learning environment.”

The bespoke building has been meticulously designed to achieve net-zero in operation, reflecting the College’s commitment to sustainability and the Summit Learning Trust’s West Midlands Lieutenancy ‘Tread Lightly’ initiative. The Turvey Building features sustainable technologies such as air source heat pumps, solar panels, LED lighting, and natural ventilation, allowing it to operate at net-zero energy. A fabric-first approach minimises energy loss, with high-performance insulation materials used throughout. Full-height windows allow natural light to flood the classrooms, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the learning experience. Solar shading, including brise soleil, reduces energy consumption and ensures comfort. The building has achieved an SBEM A+ (-1) rating, certifying it as carbon-neutral in regulated energy use.

The project. funded via a grant from the Department for Education and investment from the Summit Learning Trust, was completed in just seven months and houses eight classrooms for A-Level Psychology, the College’s largest department, along with office spaces, storage, and modern facilities. Tom Hillier, Project Manager at TG Escapes, said: “It’s been a pleasure to collaborate with Solihull Sixth Form College on this project. We’re committed to providing students and staff with a positive environment where all can thrive. This has been achieved on this project through sustainable design decisions and material choices. Those who use the Turvey Building will be exposed to the natural elements – high levels of natural light and ventilation – a great boost for all to enjoy!”

This building is part of Solihull Sixth Form College’s broader plan to modernise its facilities to accommodate increasing student numbers and reflects a long-term investment in education. Dr Martin Sullivan, Principal of Solihull Sixth Form College, remarked: “I am absolutely delighted to have expanded the campus with such a modern, spacious and sustainable new building. It means we can look forward to welcoming even more local young people through our doors next year. I am grateful to Summit Learning Trust for helping to fund the Turvey building and I know they are as focused as we are on providing a top-quality education to learners that helps them to identify their goals and achieve their potential.”

Steve Smith, Estates and Facilities Director at the Summit Learning Trust, also praised the project’s alignment with sustainability goals: “This building reflects our dedication to sustainability and providing the best learning environments. With these facilities, Solihull Sixth Form College will thrive.”

The Turvey Building exemplifies how educational institutions can integrate sustainability into their designs. TG Escapes’ modular construction approach ensures efficient delivery while minimising waste and environmental impact. Hillier concluded, “Working closely with the College, we’ve ensured every element of this building contributes to a positive learning environment. It’s a project we’re proud of, and it’s wonderful to see it come to life.”

The Turvey Building sets a new standard for educational developments, combining sustainability with modern design. It is a model of how educational spaces can evolve to meet both the needs of students and the demands of a sustainable future.

TG Escapes predominantly focus on the education sector. They use a method of modular construction that creates a cost-effective permanent structure faster, with less disruption than traditional construction, ensuring educational continuity for staff and students. Customers rate them 4.9 out 5 based on 194 reviews and recent awards include Education Estates Contractor of the Year 2021, MMC Awards 2023 Project of the Year and Public Sector Innovation of the Year, and MMC Awards 2024 Manufacturer of the Year. TG Escapes are members of Construction Line Platinum, STA Gold and Site Safe, and the Pagabo Dynamic Purchasing System.

For more information call 0800 917 7726, email info@tgescapes.co.uk or visit www.tgescapes.co.uk