The SEN Schools Property Buying Checklist

Finding a suitable property for a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school presents unique challenges. The property must not only meet the specific needs of the students but also align with the school’s funding and operational requirements. From accessibility features to specialised classrooms, the right property is essential to providing the best educational experience.

This guide will detail the SEN property acquisition process, ensuring you find the ideal space to nurture and educate your students.

A key factor to consider is the relationship with the local authority, which pays the fees for the students. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure there is demand for SEN services in the area and build a strong partnership with the local authority.

Before beginning the property search for a SEN school, it is essential to define the school’s specific needs and priorities clearly. This initial step ensures that the chosen property effectively supports the student’s educational goals and unique requirements.

Consider the following essential questions to guide this process:

Target Student Population and Capacity Requirements

What age groups will the school serve?
What are the specific needs of the students (e.g., autism spectrum disorders, physical disabilities, learning difficulties)?
What is the desired student capacity?

Required Facilities and Learning Environments

What specialised facilities are needed (e.g., sensory rooms, therapy areas, quiet zones)?
Are there requirements for outdoor spaces for physical activities and recreation?
What types of classrooms and learning environments are necessary to support diverse learning needs?

Accessibility Considerations

How accessible is the property for students with various disabilities?
Are there ramps, lifts, and other mobility aids?
Are there provisions for assistive technologies?

Budgetary Constraints and Long-Term Operational Costs

What is the budget for acquiring the property?
What are the estimated costs for potential renovations and modifications?
What are the long-term operational costs, including maintenance and staffing?

Alignment with the School’s Educational Philosophy and Curriculum

Does the property support the school’s educational philosophy and curriculum?
Are there spaces for personalised learning and student-centred activities?
How does the property support an inclusive and supportive learning environment?

Addressing these questions can help stakeholders ensure that their chosen property aligns with the SEN school’s mission and effectively meets student needs.

While accessibility is paramount for SEN schools, the property’s location plays a broader role in the school’s success. Proximity to your existing student base or target community is crucial for accessibility and convenience. Safe and reliable transportation options are essential, particularly considering that many SEN students rely on dedicated transport services. Ample parking and designated drop-off zones are vital for the efficient operation of the school.

Key considerations include:

Proximity to Existing Student Base or Target Community

Ensure the property is close to the student population; it will minimise travel time and build community ties.

Availability of Public Transport and Safe Routes

While SEN students typically use minibuses or taxis, the property should be accessible via public transport for staff and visitors. Adequate parking and safe drop-off zones are essential for these transport services.

Safety Considerations

Evaluate traffic flow, pedestrian crossing availability, and noise pollution around the property. A safe, quiet environment is crucial for students’ well-being.

Community Amenities and Resources

Consider nearby community resources such as parks, libraries, and healthcare facilities, which could provide additional support and enrichment and create a supportive and enriching environment for the students.

When searching for a property that will be used as a SEN school, it is vital to prioritise critical features that ensure suitability and compliance with regulations:

Size and Layout

Ensure there is adequate space for specialised programmes, therapy areas, and accessible learning environments. Flexible layouts can accommodate changing needs.

Accessibility Features

Prioritise properties with ramps, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms, and provisions for assistive technology to cater to various disabilities.

Sensory Considerations

Look for options to create calming spaces and manage potential sensory overload triggers, such as quiet rooms and low-stimulation areas.

Outdoor Space

Ensure there are safe and accessible playground areas that are suitable for students with varying needs. The ability to install a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) is a significant advantage.

Compliance with Regulations

Verify that the property complies with building regulations and disability access standards. This includes features like fire safety measures and emergency exits suitable for all students.

It is recommended that accessibility specialists or architects be consulted to ensure the property meets all regulatory requirements and provides a supportive environment for SEN students.

Purchasing a property for a SEN school is a significant investment. Ensuring you have done thorough due diligence ensures the property is safe, compliant, and suitable for the school’s specific needs.

Key areas of evaluation include:

Structural Integrity and Renovation Needs

Enlist the help of a professional surveyor to assess the building’s structural integrity and identify any necessary repairs or renovations. Ensure the property can accommodate required modifications for accessibility and specialised facilities.

Environmental Hazards

Conduct thorough environmental surveys to identify potential hazards such as asbestos, lead paint, or other contaminants. These assessments ensure the property is safe for occupation and compliant with health and safety regulations.

Property Use Class Considerations

Verify the property’s existing Use Class to ensure it aligns with the intended use as an SEN school. Changes in Use Class may require planning permission and could impact the suitability of the property.

Title Search and Legal Processes

Conduct a thorough title search to determine if there are any legal issues. Understanding the legal history of the property helps prevent future complications.

Selecting the ideal property for your SEN school involves several critical steps to ensure the chosen site meets all necessary criteria.

Shortlisting Properties

Begin by shortlisting properties that meet the essential criteria outlined in the earlier steps. Focus on features such as size, accessibility, and compliance with SEN regulatory requirements.

Scheduling Property Viewings

Arrange viewings of shortlisted properties to assess their accessibility and functionality for SEN students. Pay attention to layout, ease of movement throughout the building for varying physical needs, and suitability of specialised spaces.

Consulting with Professionals

Engage with relevant professionals, such as architects and accessibility specialists, to evaluate the property’s suitability. Their expertise can provide insights into necessary modifications and ensure the property aligns with SEN standards and regulations.

Successfully securing a suitable property is just the first step. Negotiating favourable lease terms is crucial for the long-term success of your SEN school.

Understand Standard Lease Terms

Familiarise yourself with standard lease terms, including rent, lease duration, and maintenance responsibilities. Ensure these terms align with the operational needs of the school.

Negotiate Rent and Fees

Negotiate the rent and other fees based on the property’s condition and any necessary renovations. Use information from property evaluations and potential modification costs as leverage in negotiations.

Seek Legal Advice

Engage legal professionals to review and finalise the lease agreement. Their expertise ensures that all terms are clear, fair, and legally binding, and will protect your school’s interests and ensure the contract aligns with your operational requirements.

Bernard Gordon has extensive experience in the SEN property market. Our SEN property specialists will be on hand to offer expert guidance throughout the property acquisition or leasing process. We ensure that all aspects—from defining needs to compliance checks—are meticulously addressed. Our team handles property evaluations and accessibility assessments and ensures critical checks like Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) are completed.

Working with professionals experienced in SEN property transactions is vital for securing a property that meets all educational and regulatory requirements. Our expertise helps make the process more efficient, ensures you adhere to all regulatory compliance, and that the property fully supports your students’ needs.

Although we work primarily in the South East, we can find suitable properties for use as SEN schools throughout the UK. Contact our team for advice, support, and guidance in finding the ideal property for your students.