St Peter’s Collegiate Academy

The journey to rebuild St Peter’s Collegiate Academy represents an inspiring commitment to the future of education. As one of the first projects under the DfE’s School Rebuilding Programme, the new 8,250m² academy building is set to open in 2025, offering brand new facilities to empower students, staff, and the local Wolverhampton community.

At its core, this project redefines the educational experience for students and staff. By replacing four outdated buildings with a cutting-edge facility on the site of “A block,” the design creates seamless learning environments tailored to modern pedagogy. The new building will enable the academy to continue delivering a rich and dynamic curriculum while ensuring minimal disruption through thoughtfully planned temporary accommodation.

Beyond bricks and mortar, this project shows the importance of collaboration. From engaging students and staff in design discussions to involving the wider Wolverhampton community, the development addresses current needs while laying the groundwork for a vibrant future. The enhanced outdoor facilities, part of the final phase, further enrich the student experience, creating versatile spaces for sports, recreation, and social interaction.

The project has far reaching impacts. Socially, the new academy building enhances accessibility and inclusivity, offering adaptable spaces for diverse teaching methods and community engagement. Economically, it invests £27.9 million into the local area, employing contractors and suppliers from the region and boosting the local construction industry.

Environmentally, the project promotes sustainability. By replacing inefficient buildings and employing innovative design strategies, the academy reduces operational energy use and creates a healthier learning environment. The design also aligns with modern educational standards, future-proofing the facility for generations to come.

A “fabric-first” approach has been adopted, prioritising energy efficiency through enhanced insulation and high-performance building materials. The reuse of existing site infrastructure minimises waste, while renewable energy solutions, including an air-source heat pump and the reuse of photovoltaic panels, further reduce the building’s carbon footprint.

Careful planning has ensured construction progress will not disrupt student learning. Temporary facilities provide continuity, demonstrating how thoughtful logistical strategies can meet both educational and environmental goals. The end result is a building that not only meets the needs of today but also respects the planet for tomorrow.