Innovation Lead for Regenerative Schools Pilot Programme

The Department for Education is seeking an Innovation Lead to serve as the primary technical partner for the Regenerative Schools Pilot, a £33 million research and development programme running to 2029-30. This cutting-edge initiative will develop ultra-low-carbon school buildings using regenerative design approaches, bio-based materials such as timber, and nature-led retrofit solutions. The Innovation Lead will guide the programme from feasibility through to completion of six standardised classroom pod designs, working alongside an Academic Adviser. Your responsibilities will include: conducting site assessments and identifying nature-led retrofit opportunities; developing concept designs for new single and dual external classroom pods that meet demanding embodied carbon targets; exploring and specifying regenerative material strategies; providing technical direction and client-side assurance during design development; overseeing contractor performance during delivery; ensuring quality of off-site manufacture and on-site installation; supporting statutory compliance and commissioning; and producing technical guidance, case studies and documentation for scaling across the wider education estate. You will work closely with the Department and other government departments including DEFRA on the Timber in Construction Road Map. The successful Innovation Lead will be appointed in August 2026, with construction contractor selection planned for March 2027.