Applying a ’sensory design’ approach to the design of an ASC/PMLD SEND Primary School
How a ’sensory design’ approach, championed by Paron-Wildes, Mostafa et al, informed the design of SEND primary school for ASC and PMLD children and yielded a novel building plan-form and accommodation distribution / adjacencies. Grand Union Village Primary School is a new SEND school, procured by the DfE, for the Eden Academy Trust. The thought processes informing key design development steps will be explored. The building plan’s constituent elements and their designs / locations / proximities will be explained. The building’s designer and head teacher will provide, in conversation, design / stakeholder / operator perspectives, throughout the talk.

Learning Without Limits: Rethinking SEN/ASN Spaces for the Future
This session explores how choice and flexibility drive innovation in Scotland’s ASN schools, creating inclusive environments that empower young people with additional support needs. Through case studies of four pioneering schools, we showcase how thoughtful design fosters independence, accessibility, and lifelong opportunities. Key insights include the value of mainstream-SEN collaboration, designing with future outcomes in mind, and ensuring high-quality learning spaces for all. By rethinking SEN/ASN environments, we can remove barriers, enhance opportunities, and shape a more inclusive future for education.

Innovative Spaces for Unique Minds: Yeoman Park Academy
Yeoman Park Academy in a fully inclusive, all-through specialist academy for various levels of need, including PMLD, autism and SLD. The school places important on lifeskills to provide pupils with independence. The presentation will include lessons learnt from the design process, engagement with the school and the overall design. It will highlight the importance of detailed end user involvement to create tailored specialist learning environments and how building can support the curriculum and values of the school.

In order to attend the conference please register your place