East Dunbartonshire Council in Scotland replaced two existing Additional Support Needs (ASN) schools with a single new inclusive educational facility to deliver continuous education for children and young people ages 2-18.
Challenge
The design required consideration for 200 students with mild/moderate to severe/complex needs across a range of educational, medical and mobility support in a safe, immersive and accessible space. It was imperative that the design addressed barriers to learning, represented all students and provided inclusive access throughout.
Solution
The rustic brick palette of the building exterior creates clean lines and provides a sensory experience, while roof lights ensure educational activities are flooded with natural light. Inside, a barrier-free, ground-breaking sensory trail runs throughout the building, guiding students in a shared experience. By using colour, text and pictograms, students can navigate the building independently to their own ability.
Outcome
As lead architect, our design delivers a continuous learning environment that fully supports the diverse needs of its students while fostering independence, inclusion, and wellbeing. Developed through extensive collaboration with staff, parents, and stakeholders, the facility provides choice, accessibility, and a shared sense of community for learners, families, and educators.
Drone footage © McLaughlin & Harvey
While designing one of the few two-level ASN schools in Scotland, we collaborated with parents, staff, and stakeholders to address barriers to learning and ensure inclusive access for all students.
The sensory trail guides students through the building while creating a shared experience.
Positive messaging and inclusive design principles are integrated throughout the school
Photo Credit: Keith Hunter Photography
