Derby primary school reopens in a brand-new, net-zero building

Pupils have returned to a completely rebuilt Becket Primary School in Derby, giving the city a modern new setting for primary education.

The project is part of the Department for Education’s £20bn School Rebuilding Programme, which is funding major rebuilding and refurbishment work across England.

Modern facilities, greener design

The new school includes modern classrooms, an upgraded kitchen, a hall, library and group spaces. Outdoor play and PE facilities have also been improved.

Becket was rebuilt on its existing playing field. The old buildings will now be demolished, allowing a new playing field to be created.

Nearby Pear Tree Infant and Nursery School was also selected for the programme and is due to be completed next month. Both schools have been designed to operate as net-zero carbon buildings.

Derby City Council secured the schools’ places in the national scheme. The council said the investment would provide safe, modern facilities for pupils, staff and local residents.

Why it matters for Britain

The work brings upgraded school facilities to children and families in Derby while supporting the wider effort to modernise school buildings across England. The net-zero design also provides a practical example of lower-carbon public infrastructure.