SCHOOLS across the North East that are undergoing improvements to their buildings can now bring construction work into the classroom.

Through a new initiative, called School Projects Direct, headteachers can organise building and maintenance work for their schools online, and pupils can use technology such as webcams to learn as the work happens.

Darlington-based Niven Architects has joined forces with T Manners & Sons, of Bishop Auckland, County Durham, to provide headteachers with a one-stop shop for building, design and maintenance work.

Headteachers can contact local building maintenance services at School Projects Direct, which gives them direct access to architects and contractors experienced in working on building, refurbishment and environmental schemes in schools.

Niven Architects director Simon Crowe said: “The great thing is that we can work with the children and the building project can become part of the curriculum. We can show them what is available in terms of energy- efficient materials and sustainable sources such as wind power, ground source heating, solar power and rainwater harvesting.”

Robert Manners, managing director of T Manners & Sons, added: “The new service will make looking after buildings so much easier because we work directly with the school authorities to minimise disruption. We can also use technology such as webcams to help schools get more involved.”

For more information, email spd@tmanners.co.uk