Kier working with Sheppard Robson Architects, has completed work on the new £14.5m Essa Academy in Bolton.

The 8,303sq m academy provides a unique 900 place learning environment for 11 to 16-year-olds and is now fully occupied.

The state-of-the-art learning facility provides a business-like environment that is carefully balanced with a calm and inclusive atmosphere. Pupils use cutting edge ICT with optimum efficiency to break down the barriers of learning and embrace independent and creative thinking - developing as confident citizens ready and prepared to carve out a route to future employment.

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The design concept for the site is based around a processional route from the site entrance to the building entrance that prepares students for the day of learning. The building is arranged to form a welcoming, civic entrance and encloses a partially covered courtyard.

Central to the Essa design is the International Business and Enterprise Centre (IBEC) – an interactive facility and official Apple Learning Centre. Deliberately placed in the most conspicuous location - 'floating' above the reception and the main entrance - the IBEC is fully glazed and interspersed with brightly coloured aluminium fins, so that the activities and events inside can be seen on the approach to the building.

Managing Director of Kier Construction's northern region, Gary Wintersgill, also commented: "We are delighted with the new academy as it will provide an educational step change to the children in Bolton by delivering an IT rich and flexible learning environment. The school team have been a delight to work with and very proactive throughout, which has enabled us to deliver a school fit for the 21st century."

(CD/GK)