School unveils climate-ready campus

A County Durham school has completed a major redevelopment to create a climate-ready campus.

Woodham Academy has finished phase two of its £39 million redevelopment, transforming 8.1 hectares of grounds into a sustainable outdoor environment. 

OOBE led the landscape design aspect of the project, which includes a new playing field for pupils and the community, secure cycle parking, 24 newly planted trees and a biodiverse green roof to support pollinators and manage rainwater. 

Redesigned circulation routes have also improved accessibility and safety.

Emma McNicholas, OOBE director, said: “Landscape design is critical to meeting the Department for Education’s net-zero targets. 

“At Woodham Academy, every element of the outdoor environment – from planting to active travel infrastructure – was considered for its role in supporting climate resilience, biodiversity and student wellbeing. 

“It’s a great example of how sustainable design can deliver real benefits for both education and the wider community.”

A spokesperson for Woodham Academy added: “The redesigned grounds have transformed how our students interact with the outdoors. 

“There is now significantly more space for play and outdoor learning, which has had a clear positive effect on physical activity and social wellbeing. 

“We are also pleased the local community can access these spaces beyond school hours, strengthening community ties.”

The redevelopment forms part of the Department for Education’s nationwide programme to cut emissions across school estates by 75 per cent by 2037 and reach net-zero by 2050. 

Woodham Academy joins other OOBE-led projects, including Great Park Academy and Benton Park Academy, supporting greener, healthier learning environments across the country.

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