The landscape design for the new school was carefully considered to meet the many differing needs of the students, it embraces external learning and provides a sustainable and stimulating setting. The new Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) School for North Lincolnshire is funded and delivered by the Department for Education (DfE) as part of the Free Schools Programme and is operated by the Wellspring Trust.
The landscape embraces external learning and provides a sustainable and stimulating setting.
The design of the school grounds provides a safe and secure drop off at the main entrance, with an open and welcoming entrance Plaza. By separating vehicular and pedestrian access points and incorporating a one-way system it allows free flow of movement without conflict.
The external spaces are designed for young adults to engage with planting across the site. These areas are highly sensory, both at low level and within raised beds, allowing direct contact with nature. They also aid with the biodiversity of the site, with a wildflower meadow, habitat enhancements and provide a much-needed buffer and screen from adjacent land uses, helping to create a calm and peaceful environment for the students.
The outdoor dining space is covered, with direct access from the internal dining space, allowing students key opportunities to mentally refresh in the middle of the day, benefiting both their education and mental health. Smaller quieter seating areas allow space for 1 to 1 time and to socialise, these are combined with other areas for larger groups and school events. The horticultural garden with raised beds and polytunnel includes an orchard and provides a vocational horticultural learning area for the students.
There is also a vocational DT workshop for car mechanic teaching and associated outdoor space for car washing, and maintenance studies. The large multi-use games area allows for team sports, or informal activities and can also be used as a general breakout space.
