We used our in-depth knowledge of SEN Schools to design Wisbech SEMH School through the perspectives of the pupils and the end-users.

Acknowledgement to the intrinsic worth of the person and their potential contribution to the community we incorporated vocational learning and teaching space into the design through community facing elements including a:

• ‘Costa Coffee’ style Kitchen and café, enabling pupils to learn valuable skills like baking and preparing food and drink whilst interacting with the wider community.
• Retail and Production area where pupils create sculpture, art, 3D printed objects and use the community facing spaces, to sell their work and enhance entrepreneurial skills.

Central to Horizon Education Trust was the philosophy of nurture, with emphasis on each person being able to form secure and happy relationships with others in the formative years of their lives.

The building is made of distinct elements, each appropriate to its function. In the offset grid arrangement of the final design, the building elements create a mirrored pattern of outside spaces. A balance of solid and void created by inside and outside elements.

The linking spaces provide orientational views to the inner courtyards and outer gardens accommodate the main entrance/reception, dining rooms, small social/seating areas and Independent Living ‘flats’.

Design: Frank Shaw Architects
Photography: James Hull Photography