Construction students at Northampton College will be ‘going green’ as part of a new focus on developing eco-credentials and creating a sustainable workspace.
The Green House Project will see an addition to the Advanced Construction and Engineering Centre that incorporates a number of environmentally friendly resources such as a green roof, solar panels and hot water systems.
Curriculum manager for construction, Mark Bradshaw, said: “The construction industry has a huge part to play in reducing our collective carbon footprint and green technology is central to many new developments. It’s something our students will be challenged with in the workplace so we want to create a sustainable learning resource where they can embrace the green revolution as part of their studies.
“The Green House Project will be all developed within the team and will be funded by donations and sponsors, with all students able to spend some time in this area. It will also be linked to digital resources that are currently in industry.”
A number of key industry partners attended an official launch of the project at Booth Lane this week.
Carley Fountain of Northampton-based Castle Climate Control said: “It was good to meet the college team to discuss their ambitious ideas about creating a sustainable workspace for their students. What I loved the most is their passion to incorporate students into the project and encouraging them to think and build in sustainable ways.
“I honestly don’t know of any other colleges being as forward thinking - which is a massive credit to Mark and the whole construction team. I’m so excited to be a part of this and bring heat pumps and renewable heating into the classroom.”
Other companies involved in the launch include Cawleys Waste and Resource Management, The Green Cabin Company, Hippo Products and The Green Roof Project.
Once complete, the college is hoping to be able to offer visits to the new workspace to local schools.
