Morgan Sindall Construction has been appointed to deliver three specialist education needs (SEN) projects for the London Borough of Brent, helping to address the rising demand for SEN facilities in the area. The £6 million investment will fund expansion works at Newman Catholic College, Preston Park Primary School, and St Margaret Clitherow RC Primary School.
The projects, procured through the SCAPE framework, will see the construction of new classrooms and sensory areas, with each school benefiting from outdoor play areas and soft landscaping, such as vegetable gardens. The improvements are designed to enhance the learning environment for students with special educational needs, providing facilities tailored to their specific requirements.
At Newman Catholic College, a new two-storey structure will house two additional classrooms, while Preston Park Primary and St Margaret Clitherow RC Primary will each gain two classrooms on a single floor. All three schools will also feature dedicated sensory spaces, designed to offer therapeutic and stimulating environments for students with varying needs.
Emma Curtis, Northern Home Counties Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. “We’re proud to work with Brent Council to expand much-needed SEN facilities, helping to support the next generation of students who require extra care. At Morgan Sindall, we recognise the importance of providing inspiring and practical learning environments, which play a crucial role in helping children achieve their full potential. Our experience delivering similar projects, such as The Windmill School in Barnet, will guide our work on these exciting developments in Brent.”
Councillor Gwen Grahl, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Schools, highlighted the significance of the expansion. “These new specialist facilities will benefit many children and young people in Brent, ensuring their educational needs are met in a safe and secure environment designed with those needs in mind. This is part of our commitment to providing every child with the best start in life. We’re also pleased to be partnering with Morgan Sindall again as we work to meet the growing demand for SEN school places.”
In addition to expanding SEN facilities, Morgan Sindall’s construction approach will focus on environmental sustainability. The new buildings will be constructed using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), which will help reduce reliance on traditional concrete and lower the carbon footprint. Much of the construction will also be carried out offsite, reducing both the environmental impact and the overall time required to complete the project.
The SCAPE framework will also ensure that social value is created during the construction process, benefiting the wider Brent community. Morgan Sindall’s focus on sustainability and social value is part of its wider commitment to delivering inspiring places that enhance the lives of those living, learning, and working in local communities.
As the need for SEN services continues to grow, the new facilities will play a critical role in supporting Brent’s students, offering them the specialist care and educational opportunities they require.