SEN School Architects: Specialist Design for Special Educational Needs
Designing schools for children with Special Educational Needs requires more than regulatory compliance. It demands architectural insight into how sensory environments, spatial relationships, and material choices fundamentally shape learning outcomes for pupils with autism, ADHD, physical disabilities, and complex communication needs.
At Grayling Thomas Architects, we've spent two decades developing SEN design expertise that goes beyond Building Bulletin standards. Our approach earned both the RICS Social Impact Project of the Year and RICS Education Project of the Year in 2020, recognition that reflects our commitment to creating schools where every detail, from acoustic design to circulation planning, supports neurodivergent learners.
We work with Local Authorities, Multi-Academy Trusts, and independent special schools across Oxfordshire and nationally, translating complex SEND spatial requirements into environments that reduce anxiety, promote independence, and allow teaching staff to focus on education rather than managing physical space.
Why Choose Grayling Thomas for SEN School Design?
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National recognition in SEN and inclusive education architecture
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Specialist understanding of neurodivergent and physical disability learning environments
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Experience delivering DfE and CIF-funded SEN projects
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Close collaboration with headteachers, teaching staff, and pupils
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Environments designed for both educational outcomes and wellbeing
Winner of RICS Project of the Year and RICS Education Project of the Year, Dorothy Goodman School showcases our innovative approach.
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Oversized textured roof lights as teaching tools
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Classrooms all facing south with solar shading and meadow views
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Distinctive materials, textures, and colours to aid navigation
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Specialist facilities: sensory suites, therapy suite, illuminated sensory garden, science, DT, and art spaces
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Wide corridors and easy-to-map circulation
A design that the school describes as life-changing for its pupils.
Designed for pupils excluded from mainstream education, Chalk Hill creates a peaceful environment that reduces stress and fosters inclusion.
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Two curved south-facing blocks for natural light & ventilation
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Landscaped quiet courtyard for outdoor learning and reflection
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Specialist SEN spaces: sensory, multi-sensory, and soft play
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Residential accommodation, specialist classrooms, and support areas
A deliberately serene environment for children facing personal and educational challenges.
A specialist SEN extension delivered on a tight summer schedule, proving our ability to deliver high-quality results fast.
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Conversion of a community space into a specialist SEN primary unit
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Two classrooms, group spaces, toilets, and offices- delivered in just 16 weeks
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Client testimonial:
“Grayling Thomas has been a faultless company to work with… Andrew is a delight to work with and the requirements of the client are always paramount… SENDAT hope to work with Grayling Thomas again in the future.”- Sue Prickett, CFOO SENDAT
Our SEN Design Philosophy
Every SEN project we deliver is shaped by empathy, collaboration, and innovation. We work hand-in-hand with teachers, parents, and pupils to design spaces that:
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Support a wide range of learning difficulties
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Encourage independence and engagement
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Integrate nature, light, and texture to enhance focus and calm
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Provide specialist facilities for therapy, sensory stimulation, and community use
Work With Us
If you are planning a new SEN school, extension, or refurbishment, Grayling Thomas Architects can guide you from funding applications (CIF and beyond) through to design, planning, and delivery.
Let us help you create a world-class SEN learning environment where every child can thrive by contacting us today.
Oxfordshire
7 Goddards Lane
The Theatre Chipping Norton
Chipping Norton
OX7 5NP
Cambridgeshire
Sheraton House
Castle Park
Cambridge
CB3 OAX
