AET's Commercial Connection, TG Escapes, discusses 'building the future': 

The shortage of SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) placements in the UK has become critical, leaving parents, schools, and local authorities struggling to support vulnerable children. We see this challenge as a call to action, partnering with schools to create inclusive, sustainable spaces where every child can thrive. The true impact of this work comes alive in stories from students themselves, like a young autistic student we recently met — whose response to our latest project reminded us why we do what we do.

One of the Student’s Story

Earlier this year, as we started construction on a new SEND facility at Allen Edwards School in London, we saw an opportunity for students and teachers to be a part of the journey. With support from Deputy Head Teacher Nicola Harris, we organised a site visit to show the students their future learning space up close. For neurodivergent children adjusting to new environments can feel overwhelming, so involving them early helps make these transitions easier. We met one of the the autistic students who quickly became the highlight of the day. 

The students were brought on site in small groups, each donning a high-vis vest and hard hat. From the moment this student walked onto the site, he was captivated. A large floor plan of the project displayed near the entrance drew him in right away. While others moved through the tour, this student lingered with his support worker, closely studying the measurements and layout. Soon, he began pointing out different rooms to his classmates throughout the tour. His excitement was contagious, and the other students were asking him about each space, following his lead as he pointed out where classrooms, sensory rooms, and activity areas would be. 

Our team was moved by this student’s curiosity and the way he connected with the project’s details. Inspired by his enthusiasm, our team quickly sourced a copy of the floor plan as a keepsake. As he left the site, he was already showing his friends the map, proudly connecting the dots between the plans and the construction around him.

This student’s story is a strong reminder of our mission: to create biophilic, net-zero spaces where every child feels seen, valued, and included. We are creating spaces where students feel connected to the environment and take pride in their surroundings. By involving students in the building process, we’re not just creating functional spaces, but creating a deeper connection to their learning environment.

To commemorate the visit, students received a small keepsake—a gift bag and pen, and we provided the school with photos taken on the day to share with their community.

We know that schools face the challenge of meeting SEND, SEMH and neurodiversity requirements alongside budget constraints and sustainability goals. Our work with Allen Edwards and similar schools reflects our holistic approach to these needs. The buildings we create are designed not only for today but with a sustainable future in mind.

Over the past year, we’ve conducted extensive research, speaking with local authorities, SEND experts, and schools to develop pre-designed, DfE Spec 21-compliant solutions that can support students living with SEND, SEMH and neurodiversity across various educational settings. Each design includes sensory rooms, activity areas, and classrooms crafted to support students' sensory and emotional well-being. By keeping specialist spaces integrated with mainstream settings, we promote inclusive education that feels natural for both students and staff.

Our buildings are also designed to be net-zero in operation, featuring air-source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels. Through biophilic design principles, we maximise natural light, optimise ventilation, and use sustainable materials—all of which create spaces that connect children with nature, supporting both well-being and environmental goals.

We’re committed to creating more opportunities to share students' stories, focusing on supporting children’s well-being and success throughout their education. Follow our journey to learn more about how TG Escapes is building a better future.

Find out more about Commercial Associate, TG Escapes: