Barker, part of the TEEAM group, are proud to highlight the successful delivery of a suite of energy-efficiency improvements at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, completed as part of the Great British Energy Solar Partnership (GBESP).
The school recently welcomed Josh MacAlister, Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, who visited the site to see first-hand how the GBESP programme, managed by LocatED, is driving meaningful change across the education estate. As lead delivery partner, Barker has overseen the implementation of the new energy-saving measures now operating on site.
The works included the installation of a 36.75 kWp solar PV array, comprehensive LED lighting upgrades, and new electric vehicle charging points. Together, these improvements are expected to cut electricity demand by 36% and gas consumption by 24%, delivering estimated annual savings of around £8,500. Crucially, the project was fully supported through government grant funding, allowing the school to realise these benefits without impacting frontline education budgets.
Tom Deacon, Partner at Barker and Programme Lead for the GB Energy Solar Partnership, commented:
“We are delighted to see these initial solar arrays, and LED installed, operating and delivering savings that enable St Joseph’s School to deliver better outcomes for their students.”
During the visit, pupils and staff also shared details of the school’s wider sustainability efforts, underlining a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term behavioural change.
Barker remains committed to working alongside schools to enhance energy performance, reduce carbon emissions, and create resilient, efficient learning environments that support both educational outcomes and long-term financial sustainability.
