Morgan Sindall Construction’s Essex division has been selected by Essex County Council (ECC) to redevelop Castledon School, a specialist educational needs (SEN) school
This Castledon School project is needed as the demand for specialised education grows in Essex. The plan includes both an extension to an existing building and the construction of an entirely new facility, resulting in an increased capacity from 114 to 196 students.
The new 1,660-square-foot building will house eight new classrooms, a sports hall, a food tech classroom, a science lab, an art studio, physiotherapy facilities, a library, and office space for teaching staff.
Morgan Sindall secured the project through the Essex Construction Framework 2 (ECF2), which aims to improve facilities in the area, such as emergency services, government institutions, and educational organisations.
Providing the best SEN facilities
The extension will help Castledon School cater to students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), moderate learning difficulties, and other special educational needs. It will feature state-of-the-art therapy and calming rooms.
“We understand the specialist facilities required and the considerations that should be made when building these educational spaces. It’s becoming more apparent that facilities like Castledon School are of great need in the community as we begin to understand the challenges and learning difficulties of young people with ASD,” said Andrew Harper-Rowe, area director for Morgan Sindall.
“The high demand for places at the school goes to show the importance of quality educational support, and we’re thrilled to offer our expertise in ensuring more young people are given an opportunity to thrive,” he added.
Morgan Sindall will also redevelop the existing parking area, adding 19 regular parking spaces and two minibus spaces.
Morgan Sindall will manage carbon emissions released during construction
As part of its commitment to sustainable practices, Morgan Sindall will use its in-house CarboniCa carbon assessment tool to manage carbon emissions during the project. The goal is to achieve a net-zero operational development.
70% of the roofing will be equipped with photovoltaic (PV) panels, ensuring that the completed project operates with a net-zero carbon footprint.
“We are pleased with this development and much-needed investment. The specialist facilities are desperately needed to help further develop a broad and balanced provision,” commented Simon Holliday, headteacher at Castledon School.
“The remodelling will also alleviate pressure on existing facilities. We are grateful to Essex County Council’s education directorate for considering the need at Castledon following conversations which have taken place over the past three years,” he concluded.
