Rio Architects named as finalists for awards at the Education Property Awards and Michelmore Property Awards

Baytree SEN School in North Somerset has been shortlisted for two awards: Education Project of the Year at the Michelmore Property Awards and SEND Project of the Year at the Education Property Awards.

Located on the fringes of Clevedon, the new school provides a facility shaped into the landscape to accommodate teaching, learning, and specialist care for 65-85 children with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) from 3 –19 years.

Baytree SEN School is a heartfelt reflection of our user-centred approach. Designed to ensure the building met the specific needs of the pupils, staff, parents and carers, the school is a welcoming and comfortable environment. The result is an inclusive, welcoming, and calm environment, carefully designed to support learning, comfort, and well-being.

Sustainability was a key driver throughout. The building prioritises energy efficiency, biodiversity, and user well-being for long-term environmental and social benefits. A considered layout supports a smooth transition from arrival to the classroom, helping to create a positive start to each day.

Class bases are positioned to optimise daylight and views, with every classroom benefiting from direct access to dedicated outdoor learning spaces and play areas.

Assistive technology is fully integrated, and sensory rooms provide immersive experiences tailored to individual learning needs.

Baytree SEN School sets a new benchmark for specialist education facilities and could inform future SEN school designs, demonstrating that accessibility should go beyond compliance to enhance learning environments.

We’re proud to be recognised alongside many other outstanding projects at this year’s Michelmore Property Awards, taking place in Exeter on July 2nd, and the Education Property Awards, a UKREiiF fringe event in Leeds on May 20th, where Associate Director, Lee Protheroe, will be in attendance.