Newsletter Summer 2010 - the Benenden School Trust

Offical opening of the Eco
Classroom
The new eco-classroom is set in the Victorian Water
Gardens. The classroom utilises a broad range of
sustainable energy ideas and environmentally friendly
building practices. It is a wooden circular structure
and is made from renewable timber sources. A large
rainwater collection tank is combined with a
complicated filtration process to provide water to
the building. The tank is fed from run-off from a
sedum roof, designed to maximise insulation, while
extensive solar-panelling will light and heat the
building, as well as heating the running water. As far
as the architects know, this is the only such building
of its kind in the country and is at the leading edge of
sustainable design. A wonderful example of modern,
environmentally friendly design, the classroom is a
lesson in sustainability itself. Already in use by the
Biology Department, this new facility is proving popular
with other departments who appreciate the tranquil
setting. The classroom will also be available for nearby
primary schools to use for day trips and experiments.
The eco-classroom was funded thanks to the very kind
generosity of the Marshall family, Lord and Lady
Marshall of Knightsbridge and their daughter, Trustee
and Benenden Senior Anna Marshall (M77).
The Eco Classroom was funded
thanks to the very kind generosity of
the Marshall family, Lord and Lady
Marshall of Knightsbridge and their
daughter, trustee and Benenden
Senior Anna Marshall (M77).
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