Emma Baugh

Corby marked its 55th Highland Gathering, reflecting the town’s strong Scottish heritage rooted in migration linked to its former steelworks. Events included pipe band performances, Highland dancing, a porridge-eating contest, and a new strongman competition. Chieftain Gary Buchan highlighted the town’s multigenerational Scottish identity and its inclusive character shaped by economic migration. Organisers noted participation from dancers across the UK and abroad as the community celebrated its cultural traditions while competing for the UK’s first Town of Culture designation.

A newly built primary school in Buntingford remained open during a severe heatwave thanks to its net‑zero, Passivhaus‑certified design featuring triple glazing, north‑facing classrooms, solar power and airtight construction. Designed by Holmes Miller and built by Morgan Sindall, the school produces more energy than it consumes and eliminates fossil fuel use through solar panels and an air‑source heat pump. Staff, pupils and local officials highlighted the benefits for learning, wellbeing and climate resilience, with calls for more UK schools to adopt similar sustainable standards.

A newly built primary school in Buntingford remained open during a heatwave thanks to its net‑zero, climate‑resilient design featuring north‑facing classrooms, triple glazing, tight insulation, solar panels and an air‑source heat pump. The Passivhaus‑certified building uses sustainable materials and produces more energy than it consumes, reducing the need for fossil fuels while providing cool learning environments. Architects, builders and local officials describe the school as a model for future educational facilities, demonstrating how sustainable construction can support pupil wellbeing and withstand future climate conditions.