£23.8 million

Value

4,529m²

New School Development

SEptember 2024

Completion

Willow Tree Primary School (Wixams) 

A Net Zero Carbon, Future-Ready Learning Environment

Overview


The Willow Tree Primary School in Wixams is a state-of-the-art, Net Zero Carbon (NZC) education facility, delivering innovative, flexible learning spaces for Bedford’s expanding community. Designed as a 4FE (Four-Form Entry) school, the project accommodates up to 840 pupils, ensuring that Bedford Borough Council can meet the growing demand for high-quality primary education.


Developed through the SCAPE 5 National Framework, the project integrates cutting-edge sustainability measures, advanced learning technologies, and community-focused amenities. The school features a multi-use games area (MUGA), drained sports pitches, and extensive outdoor learning spaces, creating an inspiring, adaptable learning environment.

Constructed using a steel primary frame and high-performance cladding, the project combines durability, efficiency, and architectural excellence, ensuring a future-proofed educational facility that meets Net Zero Carbon in operation standards.

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Project Delivery & Challenges Overcome

Delivering a high-performance education facility on a constrained site required a collaborative, problem-solving approach. Key challenges successfully addressed included:

• Managing a complex construction programme within a growing residential area, ensuring minimal disruption to the local community.

• Integrating Net Zero Carbon strategies, requiring careful coordination of energy-efficient technologies, renewable power generation, and low-carbon materials.

• Ensuring a smooth transition for new pupils and staff, with extensive stakeholder engagement, teacher training, and digital integration.

• Coordinating multiple funding and procurement streams, balancing public sector budget constraints with high-quality delivery expectations.

Through early contractor involvement, digital design coordination (BIM Level 2), and proactive engagement with Bedford Borough Council, the project remains on track for completion in September 2024.

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Key Features & Educational Benefits

The new Willow Tree Primary School delivers a modern, adaptable, and environmentally responsible education facility, designed to foster student engagement, well-being, and academic success.
Flexible, Future-Proofed Learning Spaces:

• State-of-the-art classrooms equipped with interactive technology, natural ventilation, and flexible layouts.

• Multi-use dining and assembly hall, providing space for whole-school gatherings, performances, and community events.

• Dedicated specialist learning areas, including ICT suites, creative arts spaces, and a library designed for collaborative, student-led learning.

• Outdoor learning zones, including a drained sports pitch, MUGA, and biodiversity gardens, supporting physical education and environmental education.
Sustainable & Net Zero Carbon Design:

• BREEAM Excellent certification, ensuring low-carbon operation and energy efficiency.

• Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) panels, generating renewable electricity on-site.

• Advanced insulation, triple-glazed windows, and passive design principles, optimising thermal efficiency and natural daylighting.

• Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS), improving stormwater management and biodiversity.

• Net Zero Carbon in operation, ensuring that the school remains a low-energy, cost-efficient facility for future generations.

By integrating smart energy systems, sustainable materials, and innovative construction techniques, the project ensures a low-carbon footprint while maximising educational outcomes.

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Community & Social Impact

The Willow Tree Primary School project is not just about delivering a new school—it’s about enhancing the wider Wixams community and providing long-term benefits for students, families, and local businesses.

• Employment & Training Opportunities:

• Over 70% of supply chain spend remains within 40 miles of the site, supporting local businesses.

• Apprenticeship and work experience placements provided for local young people.

• STEM education workshops and site visits for pupils, introducing them to careers in construction and sustainability.

Community Well-being & Engagement

• Multi-use facilities available for after-school clubs, local sports teams, and community events.

• Safe, accessible school design, ensuring an inclusive environment for children of all abilities.

• Extensive landscaping and biodiversity enhancements, creating green spaces that promote outdoor learning and well-being.

• By integrating educational excellence, sustainability, and community engagement, the project leaves a lasting legacy for Bedford’s growing population.

Client Feedback

"This project represents a major step forward for education in Wixams, providing an innovative, sustainable learning environment for generations to come. Willmott Dixon’s commitment to delivering a Net Zero Carbon school, alongside their engagement with local stakeholders, ensures that this will be a flagship educational facility for Bedford."
— Bedford Borough Council Representative

The project has been praised for its high sustainability standards, community engagement, and forward-thinking educational design, reinforcing its status as a model for future school developments.

Legacy & Future Impact

The Willow Tree Primary School project is a flagship example of Net Zero Carbon school construction, setting a new benchmark for sustainable education infrastructure in the UK.
By prioritising energy efficiency, flexible learning environments, and community well-being, the project ensures that future generations of pupils can learn in a school that is both environmentally responsible and academically inspiring.

With its high-performance design, cutting-edge sustainability measures, and lasting social impact, Willow Tree Primary School will remain a beacon of educational excellence for years to come.


PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Project Value: £23.8 million
Completion: September 2024
Client: Bedford Borough Council
Location: Wixams, Bedfordshire
Size: 4,529m² new school development

PROJECT DETAILS