A new purpose-designed SEND centre supporting growing demand at Ashford Park Primary School in Surrey.
Case study
Ashford Park Primary School (SEND)
Client: Surrey County Council
Project overview
Delivering multidisciplinary services
Norse Group was appointed by Surrey County Council to provide multidisciplinary services to support the delivery of the Acorn Centre at Ashford Park Primary School, a new single-storey SEND provision responding to growing demand for specialist places.
Our team provided multidisciplinary services across RIBA Stages 0–6, working closely with the school, Surrey County Council, planners and project partners. Options were explored to either extend the school’s existing SEND provision or create a new standalone facility, with the latter identified as the preferred approach.
Adapting to changing needs
The project was driven by increasing demand for SEND places, with the school’s existing provision already at capacity. Temporary classrooms were required to maintain provision ahead of the new building, requiring careful coordination and a planning agreement.
Midway through the project, a change in headteacher led to a comprehensive review of the proposals to ensure the design continued to meet the school’s evolving needs. This resulted in the relocation of the proposed building, requiring additional surveys, amendments to the permitted development approval and changes to the internal layout.
Working in partnership
Close collaboration between Surrey County Council, the school, contractor and project team was central to the successful delivery of the Acorn Centre.
End users were engaged from the outset, ensuring the needs of the school and its pupils were understood and incorporated throughout the design process. This collaborative approach continued through construction, with the school and pupils kept informed and involved as the new provision took shape.
The Acorn Centre was delivered four weeks ahead of programme and within budget, providing a high-quality, purpose-designed environment tailored to the needs of the school and its pupils.
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