Special Educational Needs (SEN) School Design
At Grayling Thomas Architects, we specialise in the design of Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools that transform lives. With decades of experience and national recognition, including winning both RICS Social Impact Project of the Year and RICS Education Project of the Year in 2020, we are proud to be one of the UK’s leading practices for SEN architecture.
We understand that every pupil’s needs are unique. That’s why our SEN school designs go beyond compliance to create sensitive, purposeful, and inspiring learning environments that are safe, adaptable, and truly supportive of children with additional needs.
Why Choose Grayling Thomas for SEN School Design?
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Award-winning expertise in SEN and inclusive education design
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Deep understanding of specialist teaching, therapy, and sensory spaces
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Proven track record delivering Academy CIF-funded projects
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Close collaboration with headteachers, teaching staff, and pupils
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Designs that support both learning and well-being
Featured SEN Projects
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
