Why modular buildings are a great solution for SEMH pupils

February 27, 2023 Adam Richards

How S2e’s bespoke units provide flexible, high quality spaces for schools

Students with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs deserve surroundings in which they can flourish. New buildings are seen as a luxury when school budgets are tight and time is short, but Surveyors to Education (S2e) has the perfect solution – high quality modular buildings which deliver a purpose-built SEMH facility fast and efficiently.

The best environment for SEMH students

There is a growing demand for schools to provide a bespoke environment for SEMH students, giving them a safe and inspiring setting in which to enjoy rewarding experiences and develop life skills.

Modular buildings are ideal for SEMH students, because they can be designed around the students’ needs. For example, S2e designed a project at The Cedars Academy in Leicestershire with spaces specifically designed for small group work, two multi-sensory rooms - one with a vinyl floor for art, crafts and wet activities, the other with soft furnishings and beanbags; and three classrooms.

The fabulous new Endeavour facility also includes WCs and a meeting room in the six-bay modular building, all of which is accessible. The Academy is delighted with the bespoke SEMH learning environment provided by these fresh, big spaces with lots of natural light.

Modular buildings to suit the environment

S2e provides a in-house architectural design service, ensuring the modular building fits in with its environment. This includes taking care to match external materials with surrounding buildings: the modules can be faced in sleek wood, in bright colours or even rustic stone, making them an attractive and creative addition to the school estate.

Our expert surveyors will also ensure that the modular building is built and oriented to take advantage of sunlight and views, whilst ensuring site access is right both for student accessibility and to provide security.

Fast and effective build

Schools need to minimise disruption to the learning environment, so it is crucial that any buildings are erected quickly. Employing innovative technologies, modular buildings can now be designed and constructed off-site as prefabricated units. Connected end-to-end, side-by-side or in storeys these modular units can make buildings of any scale or layout, and are quickly assembled on site.

At Thomas Estley Community College in Leicester, where we needed to provide two dedicated classrooms away from the school environment for young people with SEMH difficulties, access was limited. The site was off the main entrance to the school so keeping disruption to a minimum was a key challenge. To avoid lengthy traditional construction with multiple deliveries on site, a modular building was chosen, and the project was completed within the limited school holiday period.

Cost-effective long-term solution

Schools need to achieve maximum value for their investment in good educational spaces. Modular buildings allow you to create exactly the space you need, and since they are manufactured off-site in a factory they are a highly cost-effective solution.

In addition, the modules are energy efficient and therefore cheap to run, providing further cost savings over an extended period.

Choose modular buildings for your SEMH needs

At S2e we help you develop the optimum learning environment for your pupils. We know that modular units can be the best solution for the bespoke provision necessary for SEMH needs.