A school could soon be producing its own electricity – with plans to install its own wind turbine.

Blue Coat CofE Primary School in Wotton-under-Edge plans to be able to generate 10kw of renewable energy using solar PV panels and a small wind turbine.

"The aim is to have a clear physical example of renewable technology, offering strong educational and community benefits as well as reducing the school's carbon footprint and electricity bills," said Alex Alliston, a school parent and engineer who is managing the project.

The wind turbine will be about 15m high and will generate 6kw of electricity and will be on the school playing field. It will have no immediate neighbours, and benefits from prevailing SW winds and will be no higher than the existing line of trees at the site.

The children, staff and PTA are excited at the prospect of having their own wind turbine and solar power.

Sally Greaves, acting head teacher, said: "This exciting project will directly benefit the school and the community. It will teach our children so much about the steps we can take to reduce our dependence on oil and gas, save energy and safeguard the planet for future generations of children."

The school hopes to secure planning permission for the project in March and then will be applying for further funding from grant sources. It is hoped work to install the turbine and panels will begin in the summer.

The school has some funds set aside for such a scheme and there is currently a very favourable funding climate, especially for community and public buildings.

Grants are also available from the Government, Big Lottery and from "green funds" run by the energy suppliers EDF Energy, E.ON and Scottish Power.

Large digital displays in the school would show the total power generated and CO2 savings. In addition, the school is planning a web-based monitoring system so children, staff, other schools and interested members of the public would be able to assess the benefits and performance of the renewable energy systems.