Warrington is set to benefit from a new state-of-the-art Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school, following the successful planning approval of the 56-place Seymour Academy. The project, led by offsite construction specialist Reds10 on behalf of the Department for Education, marks a significant step in addressing the growing demand for specialist education in the region
Seymour Academy in Warrington, secures Planning Permission.
Designed by HLM Architects, the school will be operated by The Sovereign Trust and located in Padgate. The proposals, which include a two-storey building alongside playing fields, a multi-use games area (MUGA), and a blend of hard and soft landscaping, were approved by Warrington’s development management committee last week.
The facility has been designed to cater primarily for ambulant pupils with Autism, while also having the flexibility to support those with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH) and Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN). The design approach for the new academy has been focused on delivering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students.
Seymour Academy: A Purpose-Built SEND Facility
The school has been designed to accommodate Key Stage 1 through to Key Stage 4 pupils, with 12 classrooms, dedicated quiet rooms, and spaces for visiting healthcare professionals.
The school will also feature extensive outdoor facilities, including playing fields, a multi-use games area (MUGA), and areas for forest school and horticultural activities, designed to support both learning and well-being. A key element of the project is its focus on future-proofing the school to accommodate potential changes in pupil needs. The design considers provisions for students with more severe learning and mobility requirements, ensuring adaptability for the future.
Community engagement is central to the school’s vision, with the MUGA, hall, and playing fields accessible for community use outside school hours. The playing fields will also be available for hire on weekends, reinforcing the school’s role as a valuable local resource.
Sustainability has been embedded into the project, and incorporates a bio-solar roof, air-source heat pumps, and natural ventilation strategies with the aim of achieving Net Zero Carbon for operational energy.
Associate Catherine Ward commented on the milestone achievement: “Securing planning permission for Seymour Academy is an important moment in delivering much-needed education provision in the local community. Our design ensures a nurturing and inclusive environment that prioritises the wellbeing and development of pupils, while also being sensitive to the surrounding landscape. We’re excited to see the project progress and to work closely with the DfE and Reds10 to bring the Sovereign Trust’s vision to life.”
