The Hawthorns School is a new 70-place school for students aged 7–16 with high-presenting autism. The single-storey development includes landscaped grounds, parking, a student drop-off area, and residential accommodation for 10 students.
Education
Chelmsford, UK
Working closely with the Trust, we developed a flexible design that responds to the changing needs of the student population. Classrooms are grouped by key stage, each offering a distinct character to support progression through the school. Both school and residential buildings are clad in red brick with buff niches and bronze-framed windows and doors. A decorative brickwork band and two double-height volumes housing the entrance and hall, add architectural interest. Colonnades and a lush entrance courtyard contribute to a calm, civic identity.
Rooted in the school’s nature-focused curriculum, the design promotes wellbeing through strong connections to the outdoors. Internal courtyards support outdoor dining and specialist learning while enhancing circulation spaces with natural light and visual stimulation—creating a calm, engaging environment tailored to students’ needs.
