PLANS for a multi-million-pound school to teach environmentally-friendly construction have been unveiled to the public.

It is hoped about 300 students will be taught at the £4m Bicester Technology Studio, using a curriculum focusing on sustainable technology and building methods.

The school will include water recycling systems, solar panels and a central management system to record and display energy usage.

The first images of the school were displayed by educational organisation Activate Learning at Bicester Community College on May 13 as part of a pre-planning consultation.

Executive director of curriculum, standards and academies Lee Nicholls said: “We are at an exciting stage in our plan.

“We are beginning the process of recruiting a principal and are keen to start sharing the plans for the building with local people ahead of planning.

“We believe the school will not only expand opportunities for students but will contribute to the prosperity of Bicester.”

Government approval for the technology studio, which will teach 14- to 19-year-olds, was given to Activate Learning in January last year.

The group already runs schools and colleges across Oxfordshire, including City of Oxford College, Banbury and Bicester College, and Bicester Community College. Students will still be taught maths, English and science, but will specialise in sustainable construction and business techniques.

Mr Nicholls said: “As the new academy sponsor for Bicester Community College, we are also pleased to be working closely with the community college team to share expertise and offer local young people increased educational choice.”

Students will be offered coaching, mentoring and work experience with local employers such as construction company Willmott Dixon and Chiltern Railways.

A consultation took place last night at City of Oxford College, with others at Bicester Community College on Thursday, June 4, and Wednesday, June 10, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, and from 3.30pm to 7.30pm on Monday, June 29.

Residents are being invited to give feedback before final approval is sought from the Department for Education. It is hoped a planning application will be submitted by the end of the month.