SEVEN Stars Primary School and Nursery in Leyland, Lancashire, is redefining modern education - demonstrating that net zero carbon in operation, inclusive design, and highquality learning environments can be delivered cohesively without compromise. Delivered by Conlon Construction, on behalf of the Department for Education, the new primary school replaces a building that had served the local community for more than half a century. In its place now stands a future-focused, two-storey facility that supports 210 pupils and sets a benchmark for sustainable education design in the UK.
Seven Stars is one of the first 50 schools nationally to achieve net zero carbon in operation, meeting the DfE’s stringent sustainability standards. From the earliest design stages, the project prioritised low-carbon performance, longterm efficiency and pupil wellbeing. Conlon was appointed to deliver the scheme due to its established expertise in education construction and sustainable building practices, ensuring that environmental ambition translated into practical, buildable solutions.
The new school has a Gross Internal Area of 1,671sqm and has been designed around flexibility, accessibility and inclusion. It includes eight classrooms serving pupils from Early Years through to Year 6, alongside two specialist classrooms dedicated to children with special educational needs (SEN). A centrally positioned multi-use main hall supports PE, assemblies, dining and community hire, enabling the school to function as a shared resource for the wider area.
Sustainability is embedded throughout the fabric and systems of the building. The school operates without the use of fossil fuels for heating or hot water, supported by air source heat pumps, solar photovoltaic panels, passive ventilation, and high-performance insulation. Green roofs enhance biodiversity and contribute to thermal performance and surface water management. Together, these measures allow the building to meet its net zero carbon in operation targets while providing a comfortable, healthy internal environment throughout the year.
Equal attention was given to the external works, recognising the importance of outdoor space in primary education. A central playground forms the heart of the site, complemented by two smaller play areas specifically designed for Early Years and SEN pupils. New play equipment and two covered outdoor learning spaces support year-round outdoor education, while a dedicated habitat zone with a pond introduces opportunities for environmental learning and interaction with nature.
A new car park with electric vehicle charging points supports sustainable travel choices and aligns with the school’s wider net zero carbon ambitions, reinforcing sustainability as a visible and practical part of everyday school life. Conlon appointed a local supply chain throughout the project, working closely with Bowker Sadler Architecture, Bowker Building Services Engineers for MEP, Keith Walton Brickwork Ltd, and Taylor Decorating Contractors. This collaborative approach helped ensure quality, efficiency and strong relationships across all stages of delivery.
Engagement with pupils and staff was central to the project’s success. Children were invited to participate safely in key milestones, including laying the first bricks and observing crane lifts, helping them understand how their new school was built.
Commenting on the project, Guy Parker, chair of Conlon, said: “Seven Stars Primary School and Nursery provides a lasting legacy for the Leyland community. The project demonstrates how education buildings can meet ambitious sustainability targets while delivering inclusive, inspiring spaces that support learning, wellbeing and community use. As the education sector continues to respond to climate challenges, Seven Stars stands as a clear example of how net zero carbon in operation schools can be successfully delivered at scale.”
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