Royal Russell Junior School is a UKNZCBS pilot project

We’re excited to say that Royal Russell Junior School is a pilot project for the emerging UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard. The standard, which Jestico + Whiles sponsors, aims to establish a consistent, industry-approved approach to quantifying the whole life carbon of buildings.

The new school building, designed to BREEAM Excellent standard, incorporates a number of sustainable design elements, including air source heat pumps, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and photovoltaic panels. The material palette prioritises self-finished materials, minimising the need for paints and adhesives.

The brief was informed by the school’s key values and its nurturing approach to educational excellence. Our concept reflects the Russellian Journey: a child’s progression through the school as a foundation for their journey through life.

The new 400-place school will provide exemplary teaching areas and bespoke facilities for science, art and design, music and drama. The building’s frame is complete and its external façade is in progress, with completion expected in spring 2026.

It’s great to see works progressing well on site at another of our independent school projects, after celebrating the opening of the Rosalind Franklin Wing at St Paul’s Girls’ School earlier this month.