When schools discuss new buildings, the focus often falls on budgets, timelines, and programme certainty. For SEND provision, however, the quality of the learning environment is just as critical. Buildings play a direct role in how pupils feel, behave, and engage with learning, particularly those with additional educational needs.

At St Joseph’s Catholic High School in Slough, Berkshire, the requirement for a new SEND facility was driven by the need to provide calm, inclusive, and practical spaces that could be delivered quickly without disrupting a live secondary school environment. Working with Elite Systems GB and Ingleton Wood, the school delivered a purpose-built modular SEND building in just nine weeks on site.

Modular Construction for SEND: Beyond Speed and Programme Certainty

Speed was important, but it was never the sole objective. SEND environments demand more than rapid delivery. Spaces must be robust yet welcoming, flexible yet calming, and designed around dignity, accessibility, and supervision.

The project brief called for a single-storey modular building of approximately 150m², incorporating a large multi-use classroom, smaller intervention rooms, staff office and kitchen facilities, and fully compliant accessible sanitary provision. The building needed to integrate seamlessly within the existing school site while supporting a wide range of SEND requirements.

Modular construction provided the certainty of programme and quality needed to meet these demands, while allowing SEND-specific design considerations to be embedded early in the process.

Managing Modular Construction on a Live School Site

Construction within a functioning school presents clear challenges around safeguarding, noise, vehicle movements, and pupil safety. Minimising disruption was a key priority throughout the project.

The modular approach significantly reduced on-site activity, with the majority of construction taking place off-site in a controlled factory environment. Installation on site was carefully programmed around the school day, supported by secure fencing, access control, and clear segregation.

Elite Systems operated entirely within their own compound, including welfare facilities. From a leadership perspective, this approach reduced risk, maintained safeguarding standards, and allowed the school to continue operating with minimal disruption to staff and pupils.

SEND-Focused Modular Design: Calm, Dignity, and Accessibility

Designing for SEND goes beyond regulatory compliance. While Part M accessibility was fully achieved, the focus was on creating spaces that support calm, comfort, and positive learning experiences.

Wide corridors, flush thresholds, and carefully planned circulation allow smooth movement for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids. Accessible sanitary provision is centrally located, supporting dignity and ease of use. Acoustic wall linings, insulated partitions, and suspended ceilings reduce background noise, creating calmer environments for pupils with sensory sensitivities.

The internal layout balances flexibility with supervision, providing a large adaptable classroom alongside smaller intervention rooms for focused teaching and therapy.

Long-Term Value: Designing Modular SEND Buildings for a 60-Year Life

The building was designed with a 60-year life expectancy and a 25-year warranty, reflecting the importance of long-term value in education estates. Materials were selected for durability and low maintenance, including thermally modified timber cladding that provides a contemporary appearance while resisting weathering and wear.

Externally, permeable paving supports sustainable drainage and safe access routes, while energy-efficient aluminium-framed windows maximise natural light without compromising thermal performance. The insulated EPDM roof delivers long-term weather protection with minimal maintenance requirements.

This long-term approach ensures the building is not a temporary solution, but a permanent asset that supports SEND provision well into the future.

Rethinking Modular Buildings in the Education Sector

Modular construction is sometimes still associated with short-term or temporary solutions. This project demonstrates a different reality. Factory-controlled manufacture enabled precision, quality assurance, and consistent delivery of acoustic performance, accessibility, and integrated M&E services.

The completed SEND block feels solid, well-considered, and purpose-built, challenging outdated perceptions of modular education buildings.

Project Outcomes: A Purpose-Built Modular SEND Facility

The completed facility now provides a flexible 68m² classroom, two specialist intervention rooms, staff office and kitchen facilities, and fully accessible sanitary provision. Secure external areas and clear circulation routes support safe supervision and outdoor activity.

More importantly, the building delivers an environment that supports calm, confidence, and inclusion for pupils, while enabling staff to teach and support effectively.

What This Modular SEND Project Demonstrates for Schools and Academy Trusts

As demand for SEND provision continues to increase, schools and academy trusts require solutions that are fast, thoughtful, and built to last. This project highlights how modular construction can deliver high-quality SEND environments while reducing disruption on live school sites.

A Headteacher’s Perspective

​“I remember stepping into an Elite Systems building – it stood out from all the others in terms of specification and overall appearance. Any concerns regarding safeguarding or conduct on site were handled impeccably. They truly listened to our needs.”

Kelly Riddle, Headteacher, St Joseph’s Catholic High School

👉 Watch the full testimonial video from Kelly.​