Forest Way (SEN) School

Project Information

Overview

DSA worked closely with staff and students to make the most of a spectacular setting for the new Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, some 200m above sea level in the National Forest. A large amount of tree planting around the site reinforces this woodland setting creating a series of innovative spaces for outdoor learning and play.

Art plays a vital role in the creation of interesting spaces both within the building and throughout the school grounds. We engaged artists, that worked with in a range of mediums (metal, stone, timber), to create themed artworks that add visual and tactile interest to the school environment.

An innovative Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) solution utilising rainwater harvesting, vegetated swales and a wetland basin, deals with surface water. The basin being rich in wildlife and accessible by the children to be used as an exciting learning resource. Forest Way features as a CIRIA Susdrain case study.

Towards the end of 2012 Forest Way School purchased ‘The Croft’, a neighbouring house, to offer opportunities for Post-16 students to develop life skills and independence. DSA helped the school to secure planning permission including the construction of a much needed 20-space car park within the grounds.

We continued to work with the school, as it converted to academy status, to further improve the ‘learning landscape’ and develop the ‘Outdoor Learning Environment’ (OLE). This work included seasonal activities like dead hedging, willow weaving, bulb planting and the sowing of wildflower meadows, involving both the children and staff.   We expanded the existing footpath network, especially in the woodlands, to provide more opportunities for ‘woodland’ play. We also introduced innovative features like a horticultural area with a geodesic growing dome, a bird hide, and a ‘fire pit’.