Westhoughton High School , Bolton
mixed construction
As a specialist technology college Westhoughton business manager was concerned that the increase in personal computers on the site was a possible problem for the rising utility bills at the school.
The electricity usage for the computers turned out to be a minor factor compared to the school heating system.
"As a firm believe in reduction and recycling I was grateful to the advice that i-Prophets energy services gave us through the Carbon Trust. " Paula Field , Business Manager, Westhoughton High School
About Westhoughton High
Westhoughton High School is a mixed 11 to 18 community school with its own sixth form and over 1300 students on roll. We offer a friendly, successful and thriving environment. Placing a strong emphasis on academic achievement and set high standards to achieve the best from their students.
They are designated a Specialist Technology College. This means that they use technology and ICT to provide learning experiences of the highest quality for their students. They also have a focus on mathematics and science whilst ensuring that all other areas of the curriculum benefit from their status.
environmental commitment
community access
Making sense of common sense
When instructed by the Carbon Trust to engage with the school i-Prophets energy services consultant Richard Hipkiss first noticed the high gas bills and the lack of reduction of gas usage in the summer months, in fact the monthly gas use was consistent over the 12 month period analyzed. It transpired that the actual control was out of the influence of the school, managed from the local authority central BMS system. Simple awareness led to a possible 20% reduction from a simple phone call.
Engaging students and the wider community
An important requirement for the school was suggestions for the involvement of the students and the wider community. Suggestions were proposed for the school to complicate through the various channels it has to reach the students and the local community. It was also suggested that the students were given roles to play in energy reduction such as reading of meters and turning off of lights as the school 'light sabers'.
More details about the school can be found at www.westhoughton-high.bolton.sch.uk