AN ECO-friendly science block could be built at a school near Hook.

Daneshill School, a co-educational preparatory school in Stratfield Turgis, has applied to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to build a single-storey science block within its grounds.

The building would have a photovoltaic panel and solar water heating panel on the roof of one of the classrooms, to reduce the building’s carbon footprint by helping to provide towards the electricity and hot water usage within the school.

The 204.1 sq m block would replace timber, non-insulated storage sheds and a music block between the main school building and the headmaster’s house.

The application states: “The school places great emphasis on the practical, investigative approach in science, encouraging pupils to develop an enthusiastic, enquiring mind. The practical work is not only a fun way of learning, but also enhances children’s understanding of science concepts.

“The existing facilities provide very limited space and scope to make the most of this practical approach to teaching the science curriculum.

“The science rooms are an inappropriate size and proportion, especially due to the school’s dedication to offer improved teaching on green and sustainable topics. The proposed science block would offer a new backdrop and larger spaces for the science lessons and experiments.”

The building would include two science classrooms, a chemical storeroom and preparation area, class storeroom, entrance lobby and plant room. The central spine of the building would have a sedum roof, to provide ecological benefits including enhancing air quality, providing a microclimate for wildlife and improving insulation of the roof.

The green roof, photovoltaic and solar panels would also be used as a tool for teaching and promoting environmental and sustainable concepts and technologies to the children.