Creating a specialist learning environment designed around every child’s needs

Client: Cheshire East Council

Conlon Construction transformed a vacant council building into Springfield School, a purpose-built specialist education facility providing dedicated learning environments for pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Delivered on behalf of Cheshire East Council, the project created a highly tailored educational setting for up to 80 pupils, supporting learners from Early Years Foundation Stage through to Sixth Form within an environment specifically designed to promote wellbeing, independence and educational achievement.

The Challenge

The project required the complete transformation of an existing office building into a specialist SEND school, creating spaces that respond to the unique needs of pupils with ASD while ensuring the environment remained safe, welcoming and supportive.

Every aspect of the design needed to carefully consider sensory requirements, learning styles, accessibility and operational needs to create a school where pupils could thrive.

Our Solution

Conlon delivered a comprehensive refurbishment and conversion programme, including:

• Creation of eight specialist classrooms
• Dedicated sensory learning spaces
• One-to-one teaching and support rooms
• Breakout and wellbeing areas
• Hall for PE, dining and group activities
• New hygiene and accessible toilet facilities
• Staff administration and support accommodation
• New main entrance and reception facilities
• External recreation and activity spaces
• Segregated outdoor areas for different age groups
• New parking provision
• Dedicated taxi and minibus drop-off facilities
• Site-wide accessibility and safeguarding improvements

The project focused on creating an environment that supports both learning and emotional wellbeing, with spaces carefully designed around the needs of pupils and staff.

The Outcome

The completed Springfield School provides a specialist educational environment that enables pupils with ASD to learn, develop and achieve within a setting designed specifically around their needs.

By repurposing a vacant public-sector asset, the project has delivered lasting value for the local community while creating a modern, inclusive school that supports pupils throughout their educational journey.

The development demonstrates Conlon’s expertise in delivering specialist education projects where thoughtful design, stakeholder engagement and a deep understanding of user needs are essential to achieving successful outcomes.