Kier partnered with the Department for Education and Lydiate Learning Trust to deliver a new eight form entry secondary school for 1,300 pupils in Maghull, Liverpool. The 10,000sq m facility includes high-tech classrooms across three floors and along with a host of state-of-the-art facilities, including specialist science laboratories, a learning resource centre, an art studio and a multi-use games area, while retaining the existing Sixth Form block. The project met Net Zero Carbon in Operation (NZCiO) standards and successfully navigated complex site constraints – working alongside a live school and within a residential area – through innovative design solutions and strong collaboration.
Energy Use Intensity core hours
(DfE target under 67)
44.8Kwh/m2
Extra learning time gained
7 minutes
Climate Action Category – North West Construction Awards
Winner
Vickie Beaney, Head of School, Deyes High School“Together, we created a school where a positive culture could truly flourish. We’ve seen a noticeable reduction in low-level disruption, with students more engaged and less distracted—thanks to an environment that supports focus. Staff are reporting fewer behavioural escalations and more proactive peer-to-peer support. The NZCiO system has been a quiet gamechanger; consistent temperatures and acoustic control have had a direct impact on classroom calmness. Deyes is a school driven by family values — and Kier are now an integral part of that family. Their care, responsiveness, and partnership have helped shape not just the building, but the culture within it.”
Sustainability achievements
The school achieved Net Zero Carbon in Operation (NZCiO), comfortably exceeding the DfE’s NZCiO requirements. Energy performance is strong, with an Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of just 44.8 kWh/m² during core hours, significantly below the DfE target of 67 kWh/m². In its first year, the school generated 478,703 kWh of renewable energy via photovoltaic panels, contributing to both operational efficiency and long-term cost savings. Sustainability features include a BioSolar roof, hybrid ventilation, air source heat pumps and enhanced U-values across walls, floors, and roofs. The design also integrates green roofs, biodiversity enhancements and natural ventilation systems, supporting both environmental goals and occupant wellbeing.
Better outcomes for students
Early indicators show a marked improvement in student attendance and engagement. Attitudes to learning scores that are marked on a five-point-scale have risen, with more pupils also consistently exceeding expectations in classroom behaviour and participation. The building’s welcoming design has encouraged greater involvement from parents and carers, fostering stronger school–home connections.
Community impact
The new school has become a hub for community activities, hosting events from dance classes to council meetings. Staff morale and retention improved, and students reported better wellbeing and engagement. The building's design supports focus and collaboration, fostering a positive school culture. The building’s layout has also boosted learning time - pupils now gain up to seven extra minutes per lesson thanks to shorter walking distances between spaces.
Andy Brayne, senior project manager, Kier"Delivering Deyes High School was about more than constructing a building - it was about creating an environment that drives educational excellence and sustainability. This project sets a benchmark for future schools, combining energy efficiency with spaces that inspire learning and community engagement. Whenever I drive past that building, I think, wow, I was part of that building and what a great sense of achievement that is."
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