Background
Apex Contractors Ltd commissioned Anderson Acoustics to provide acoustic design advice for the construction of a new classroom block at JFK Beckton SEN School in Newham, London. The school serves students with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), and Autistic (ASD).
The project included a two-storey admin area, a single-storey classroom block, and minor refurbishments to existing facilities. The client, Learning in Harmony Trust, required an environment that supports inclusive learning and addresses the complex acoustic needs of its diverse student cohort.
Challenge
The primary challenge was to design an acoustic strategy that would foster a calming and inclusive environment, minimizing distractions and supporting students with a range of special educational needs. Key issues included:
- Managing noise ingress from external sources (road traffic, aircraft, etc.) and internal sources (building services, equipment)
- Ensuring compliance with Building Bulletin 93 (BB93), School Premises Regulations, and the Equality Act 2010
- Addressing specific listening needs for students with Autism (ASD), AD/HD, Speech Language and Communication Needs, Auditory Processing Disorder, and d/Deaf needs
- Balancing acoustic performance with practical constraints such as ventilation, glazing, and building layout
- Mitigating risks associated with construction noise, site workmanship, and plant noise emissions.
What We Did
We undertook a comprehensive acoustic review, including site surveys, 3D noise modelling, and detailed design recommendations:
- Acoustic Performance Standards: Established enhanced criteria for indoor ambient noise, sound insulation, and reverberation times, tailored to the needs of SEN students;
- Building Envelope & Ventilation: Recommended standard thermal double glazing for most areas, with upgraded glazing for staff and community rooms to mitigate higher facade noise levels. Ventilation strategies included MVHR and HVR units, with attenuators omitted where modelling showed compliance could still be achieved. External wall and roof constructions were specified to control noise ingress and rain noise;
- Internal Sound Insulation: Designed robust partition and floor constructions to achieve high levels of airborne and impact sound insulation. Provided detailed junction and penetration details to prevent flanking transmission and maintain acoustic integrity;
- Room Acoustics: Specified Class A ceiling tiles with bass backing pads and wall panels to optimize sound absorption, particularly in classrooms and therapy rooms. Recommendations ensured compliance with BB93 and supported the use of assistive listening systems;
- Noise Impact Assessment: Conducted attended and unattended noise surveys, modelled plant noise emissions, and set target noise rating levels for fixed plant to protect neighbouring residential receptors. Provided guidance for construction noise management and vibration isolation of mechanical equipment;
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborated with the client and design team to agree on alternative performance standards and management plans for areas where standard criteria could not be met due to design constraints.
Conclusion
The acoustic strategy developed for JFK Beckton SEN School demonstrates that the proposed design is capable of meeting and, where necessary, exceeding the target performance standards. The approach supports the school’s mission to provide a supportive, inclusive, and accessible learning environment for students with complex needs.
Through rigorous assessment, innovative design solutions, and close collaboration with stakeholders, we delivered a robust strategy that balances regulatory compliance, practical constraints, and the specific requirements of the school community.
For more information, head on over to Apex Contractor’s website here
The project has been shortlisted in the SEND category at the 2026 Modern Methods of Construction Awards
Image credit Rivington Street Studio
