Luxborough ASD School, Essex
Client: Andersons Developments
Role: RIBA Client Adviser
Sarah Williams provided Client Advisory services for the development of a new all-through school for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Essex. Commissioned by Andersons Developments, this ambitious project was delivered in partnership with the National Autistic Society (NAS) and designed by RMA Architects.
The new school accommodates over 100 pupils, spanning from primary through to post-16 education. Given the specialist nature of the school, the design required careful consideration of a wide range of specific needs—from fencing, safeguarding, and acoustics to the detailed specification of every fitting and finish throughout the building. The completion and opening of the school were carefully phased, allowing for a staggered and managed pupil intake.
Sarah worked closely with the client and the wider design team from the outset. She played a key role in developing the project brief to ensure the school would be not only educationally effective but also operationally robust. Her involvement continued through all stages of the project—from early consultation through to detailed technical reviews during the construction documentation phase.
The layout was zoned by age group to support clear transitions across primary, secondary, and post-16 education, and to provide appropriate levels of separation and support. Sarah provided ongoing oversight to ensure the scheme met all Department for Education (DfE) and NAS standards and best practices.
The completed school offers a rich learning environment including general teaching spaces, administration areas, sensory rooms, soft play, calm rooms, a library, art and design studios, food technology rooms, a large hall, smaller dining areas, and a dedicated life skills room for post-16 pupils. Each area was designed to be safe, durable, and supportive of pupils’ individual learning and wellbeing needs.
The landscape and external areas were equally well-considered, designed to complement the internal spaces and offer safe, engaging outdoor environments.
The school was successfully completed in 2017 and continues to serve as a vital, inclusive, and inspiring place of learning for children with autism in Essex.
