How Modular Construction Delivered a Net Zero SEND School Building for Hazelemere Infant School.

Delivering Net-Zero SEND Facilities in Live School Environments: A Modular Approach at Hazelmere Infant School 

Schools and Local authorities across the UK are facing rising demand for specialist education spaces. SEND provision in particular requires buildings that are inclusive, adaptable and compliant, while also being delivered to tight timescales. Construction often needs to take place within live school environments, where pupil safety and continuity of learning are essential. 

Modular construction is increasingly being used to meet these challenges. A recent project at Hazelmere Infant School in Colchester provides a clear example of how off site construction can deliver high quality SEND accommodation quickly, sustainably and with minimal disruption.

Project Overview 

The project was commissioned by Essex County Council as part of its education delivery programme for the 2025 school year. The brief was to deliver a new standalone SEND building that could support pupils with additional learning needs while integrating sensitively within an operational infant school. 

The completed building includes a large adaptable SEND classroom designed to support up to sixteen ambulant pupils. This is supported by dedicated sensory rooms, accessible toilets and a fully equipped hygiene room. The internal layout promotes safe circulation, clear supervision and flexible teaching, supporting both learning outcomes and safeguarding requirements.

Why Modular Construction Was Used 

Traditional construction can be disruptive and difficult to manage in live school environments. Modular construction offered a more controlled and predictable approach for this SEND project. 

The building was manufactured off site by Elite Systems GB while enabling works were carried out at the school in parallel. This significantly reduced the level of on site activity during term time and helped maintain a safe environment for pupils and staff. 

Once delivered to site, the building was installed in a single day. Follow on works, commissioning and final approvals were completed efficiently, allowing handover to take place within the required programme window. This approach provided certainty of delivery and reduced risks associated with extended construction periods.

SEND Focused Design and Compliance 

SEND requirements were central to the design from the outset. The internal arrangement prioritises clear sightlines, straightforward movement and ease of supervision. Dedicated sensory rooms provide calm, controlled environments to support emotional regulation and focused learning. 

Inclusive hygiene facilities and accessible toilets were incorporated to provide dignified and compliant support for pupils with additional needs. Materials and finishes were selected for durability and ease of maintenance, recognising the demands of daily educational use. 

The building was designed and delivered in line with Department for Education guidance, local authority technical requirements and Building Regulations. Factory controlled manufacture supported consistent quality and reduced compliance risk before installation.

Net Zero Carbon in Operation 

Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the project. The SEND modular building was designed to achieve net zero carbon in operation through a fabric first approach combined with all electric building services. 

High levels of insulation, airtight construction and efficient systems were used to reduce energy demand and support long term operational performance. Durable external materials were also selected to minimise maintenance and whole life costs. 

Working Within a Live School Environment 

Delivering the project within an operational infant school required careful planning and coordination. Safeguarding procedures, logistics and communication were managed closely throughout the programme. 

Early surveys and detailed design work ensured that new mechanical and electrical services could be integrated with existing site infrastructure without disrupting day to day school operations. Off site manufacture played a key role in reducing time on site and limiting disruption during the school year. 

Project Outcomes 

The completed SEND expansion at Hazelmere Infant School has delivered a modern, inclusive learning environment within a clearly defined and well controlled programme. Feedback from the school has been very positive. 

As Headteacher Steven Turnbull commented: 

        “Thanks to everyone at Elite Systems for all their hard work on the project.
        The children and staff love the new space.” 

The project has provided Essex County Council with a robust SEND facility that meets both immediate capacity needs and longer term education requirements, while maintaining high standards of quality, safety and sustainability. 

Supporting the Future of SEND Education 

This project demonstrates how modular SEND school buildings can help local authorities respond quickly to increasing demand without compromising on quality or compliance. By reducing disruption, improving programme certainty and supporting net zero targets, off site construction offers a reliable and repeatable approach for delivering inclusive education environments across the UK.