Rethinking school design for flexible, inclusive special education
As the education sector evolves, designing schools for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) requires adaptability and a deep understanding of their unique needs.
Through our collaboration with Tatweer Buildings Company (TBC) and the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia, we have developed a new approach for designing schools for SEND. This initiative forms part of the Ministry of Education’s Schools Programme under Vision 2030 to create inclusive educational environments that meet diverse needs.
Embracing adaptability in SEND school design
Adaptability is the foundation of our design philosophy. SEND schools need to be flexible spaces that can evolve to meet the changing needs of pupils and cohorts. The approach was to follow a simple narrative, to guide the user through the essential steps of creating a building without dictating outcomes. The process is descriptive rather than prescriptive allowing the designer flexibility and autonomy while retaining necessary design priorities.
Our design guide introduces the concept of cluster arrangements, offering investors ‘bite size’ clusters which group key spaces together. It is intended to make the design process more approachable and allows a ‘pick n mix’ approach: easily selecting groups of spaces which suit the pupil track expected to occupy them. By arranging spaces into clusters, schools can balance functionality with flexibility, ensuring adaptable, purpose-built environments that cater to students’ diverse needs.
Furthermore, every potential room in the SEND school has had a bespoke room data sheet. The design guide gives detailed examples of all spaces from specialist hydrotherapy spaces, to rebound therapy rooms, to varying toilet requirements. These sheets offer suggested layouts based on international best practices, but allow designers and clients the freedom to adapt to specific contexts.
Flexibility for clients in SEND school design
One of the greatest strengths of this approach is the flexibility and cost-effective solutions it offers to clients, especially those in the private sector. Clients are empowered to innovate and design SEN schools that meet their specific project needs while still adhering to worldwide best practice, sustainability principles, and local standards, such as Saudi Arabia’s Universal Accessibility Guidelines and Grean Code. This balance between regulatory compliance and creative flexibility enables the creation of bespoke SEND schools tailored to the unique needs of the SEND cohort, staff requirements, and support required for the wider community.
Our collaboration with international experts has been critical in developing this flexible approach. By integrating global best practices with local requirements, we have developed a guide that meets Saudi standards while advancing the design of SEND schools across the region.
Designing with SEND students in mind
Effective SEND school design must be based on a clear understanding of the educational, emotional, and physical needs of its students. A successful SEN school is not just about functionality; it is about creating a supportive environment that enhances the learning experience of every student. We have therefore also provided key SEND guidance on areas such as fire safety, acoustics, zoning, internal environments, and sustainability.
Furthermore, we have created pupil profiles for each of the identified SEND tracks which help architects understand the varying needs of different student groups. These ‘tracks’ assist designers in creating spaces that support physical, complex, communication, cognitive, sensory, and emotional requirements. This deepened understanding should enable designers to create an environment which not only support the current needs but can adapt over time as students’ needs evolve or cohorts change.
Zoning strategies ensure that learning and support spaces are well-organised, creating clear transitions between areas to enhance both functionality and creating a sense of place for students. Moreover, the guide encourages the creation of inclusive environments that promote independence and social interaction. SEND school design should integrate spaces for both learning, socialising and provide support for the whole family and wider community. This focus on inclusion not only supports students’ academic growth, social and emotional development but also nurtures community acceptance.
Lessons learned and the future of SEND school design
Our experience developing this design guide has reinforced the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and a deep understanding of SEND students’ needs. By working closely with TBC, the MoE and international experts, we have reimagined traditional approaches to SEND school design, creating a flexible framework that aligns with both local regulations and global best practices.
Effective SEND school design must not only address current needs but also anticipate future changes. By creating adaptable, flexible environments, we ensure that schools are equipped to evolve alongside their students’ requirements. Our design guide is a reflection of our commitment to fostering inclusive educational spaces where every student can thrive.
Our work on this SEND design guide has challenged pre-conceptions and long-held beliefs by providing a viable blueprint for change. Through AECOMs leadership we have provided the framework to provide a better future for some of the most vulnerable in society.
We look forward to continuing to shape the future of SEND school design, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.