Pinn River SEND School

Project: Pinn River SEND School

Segment: Education

Country/city: United Kingdom, Eastcote

Architect: Noviun Architect

Acoustician: Anderson Acoustics

Main contractor: Kier

Installer: Macai Limited

Photographer: Fred Howarth

Project size: 4,674 m²

Production year: 2025

Pinn River SEND School formed part of a wider redevelopment led by Kier Construction, which involved demolishing the existing facility to create a new purpose‑built environment for up to 180 pupils with a broad range of sensory and communication needs.

Acoustic requirements were first defined by Anderson Acoustics, who identified the need for comprehensive acoustic treatment throughout the school.

“One key aspect of the acoustic design was the consideration of small and quiet escape zones within classrooms to help provide a sense of psychological security. Small family dining areas opening directly off classrooms were designed with very good acoustic control, to provide a calmer environment during lunchtimes, avoiding the need for the ear defenders that many students with autism and SEMH reach for when faced with large, traditional dining halls,” explained Emma Greenland.

Working closely with the team at Macai Limited, a range of Ecophon ceiling and wall systems were specified and installed to meet the varied acoustic demands of classrooms, corridors and specialist teaching areas, where clarity and low background noise were essential. Ecophon Gedina™ A tiles were used together with Extra Bass, while Ecophon Akusto™ Wall C provided additional treatment where required. In areas with higher hygiene or moisture demands – such as the swimming pool – specialist solutions including Ecophon Hygiene Performance™ Ds were selected to ensure compliance and long‑term durability.

Together, these measures created a controlled and comfortable acoustic environment that helps pupils feel settled, supports speech intelligibility and enhances the overall learning experience throughout the school.