Association of Colleges

An inspirational environment for learning incorporating the latest, most advanced 'green' technology, North Manchester’s Sixth Form Centre is a prime example of energy efficiency. This award-winning building is contributing to regeneration and education in North Manchester.

The building features a two-storey photovoltaic wall which converts light into electricity, producing up to 60% of the total lighting requirements of the sixth form centre and neighbouring library – equivalent to powering 14 three-bedroom houses every year and saving over 19 tonnes of carbon emissions.

The concrete frame, along with the extra thick insulation in the walls and roof, ensures that the building retains heat, minimising the use of the boiler.

The structure requires no air conditioning. Fresh air flows across the building through open windows and is drawn out by the high-level external fins. The ventilation process is aided by the three large windcatchers at roof level over the main entrance which pull air through the building.

The boiler is deep condensing; whereas conventional boilers lose up to 30% of their heat through the flue, this one recovers most of the heat by safely condensing it from the fumes.

The environment is maintained by the Building Management System (BMS), which responds to changes in the external climate and internal environment. It controls the fresh air supply, air temperature and electric lighting using energy in the most efficient way.

All water requirements, except drinking water, are met through rainwater harvesting, which is captured from the roof and stored below ground.

Solar panels on the roof provide heat to the hot water system, and natural daylight is used in almost 100% of rooms. The views from the top floor of the building are quite spectacular, and it is a great place to watch the sun set.

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