Great Barr's Q3 Academy records excellent environmental performance as it nears September completion

The £18 million 8,500 square metre Academy building, which is due to complete next month, also recorded a carbon footprint more than 20% below the company's demanding target.

BAM Construction's Project Manager John Cooper says: 'BAM has strengthened its carbon emissions target three years in succession and so we're very pleased to have recorded such a strong performance with the construction of Q3. We believe the company is the only one within the sector to have a dedicated climate change manager, and we are very focused on making sure we reduce waste, or recycle and reuse materials on site.'

Q3 also recorded an exceptional score for how considerately John and his team delivered it after an independent inspection by the industry's Considerate Construction Scheme. Q3 scored 37.5 out of 40 points, placing it inside the UK's highest ranked 2% for all construction projects.

The construction team have been heavily involved with the Academy in implementing BTEC construction diplomas, with regular visits advice and access provided as well as training programmes and apprenticeships. An engineer has introduced mathematical engineering to students at the Academy and the techniques have then been demonstrated on site.

John Cooper adds: 'We've been very closely involved with the Academy and community and for us, it has been a pleasure, not a duty. Every construction project has a great deal it can share and give to those around it and we can a lot more than simply leave behind a superb structure.'

The new Q3 Academy is proving highly successful. It scooped the Midlands' branch of IStructE's Educational Building Award 2010 and has been shortlisted for The Wood Awards 2010 under the Structural Timber category.

The Academy became operational for staff and students on 26 April 2010. The Academy says they are delighted with their new facilities and visitors are constantly commenting on the excellent design and without exception refer to the 'wow factor'.

Phase two of the works provides the school with all of its new outdoor facilities including all-weather pitches, an amphitheatre and water features. The landscaping also incorporates areas for reflection and quiet meditation with extensive planting of trees and shrubs. Other areas of the external works include sweeping landscaped meadows leading down to the main entrance. Completing early in September, these add the final touch to this ground breaking Academy.

Further information: Mark Slattery, Press and Media Manager, BAM Construct UK Ltd, 01442 238415.