Dunfermline Learning Campus
Certification Passivhaus
Dunfermline Learning Campus
Worlds Largest Passivhaus Education Building
The Team
- Client - Fife Council
- Architects - AHR Architects
- Contractor - BAM Construction
- M&E design - RYBKA
- Passivhaus Certifiers - WARM
Project Information
- Passivhaus Classic
- EDUCATION 2450 pupils, 2 high schools co located
- TREATED FLOOR AREA 23,151 m2
- Form Factor 1.7
- Space heating demand 14 kWh/m2/yr
Dunfermline learning campus is a shining star in the Passivhaus world, not only becoming the largest certified building in the UK but also claiming the title as the largest certified Passivhaus education building in the world as of July 2025.
The Dunfermline Learning Campus brings together The Woodmill & St Columba's RC High Schools co located in one single building.
The project includes precast concrete frame, steel frame and CLT panel constructions. Concrete and CLT were chosen to help with airtightness, though the hybrid approach also presents challenges at junctions that require coordination and inspection.
Dunfermline Learning Campus was a pathfinder project for the Scottish Governments’ Net Zero Public Sector Building Standard.
Our Role
Our role as Passivhaus Certifiers was central to ensuring this ambitious vision was achieved, guiding the project from design through commissioning with rigorous quality oversight and technical expertise. We worked collaboratively with the design team throughout the project to ensure the certification requirements were clearly communicated, understood and delivered and at the appropriate stage.
Benchmarking and Site Engagement
We supported project benchmarking and carried out regular site visits to review workmanship and performance.
For example:
- Perimeter insulation installed by BAM was verified as high‑quality and correctly detailed.
- Pipework insulation, initially lacking key installation detailing, was corrected quickly once standards were clarified, preventing unnecessary heat loss from external pipework.
Commissioning and Quality Assurance
We were integral to the commissioning process. Our Involvement ensured the high‑performance ventilation systems were not only installed but configured to operate exactly as designed.
This included:
- CO₂‑sensor‑driven ventilation modulation
- Balancing mechanical systems
- Ensuring controls aligned with Passivhaus expectations
Given the considerable investment in ventilation technology, our involvement safeguarded both comfort and operational savings—ensuring the campus will perform to its full potential across its lifespan.
Fife council’s video regarding the planned green credentials prior to being built?