Client – St Albans Catholic Voluntary Academy
PM – Invise Ltd
Architect – Invise Ltd
Project Value – £120k
Duration – 12 weeks
HC3 is proud to have successfully completed the latest project at St Albans Catholic Voluntary Academy in Chaddesden, just in time for the start of the new school term this September.
The project involved transforming a key area of the school into a fully functional Occupational Therapy (OT) Unit and Sensory Space, both of which are designed to provide specialised support for students with additional support needs.
An OT Unit focuses on helping children develop, improve, and maintain the skills necessary for daily activities and participation in school. These include fine motor skills, hand-eye co-ordination, and sensory processing, enabling students to engage more fully in their education and personal development. The OT Unit at St Albans has been designed with these goals in mind, offering tailored resources to support each child’s individual journey.
The Sensory Space is equally important, providing a calming, therapeutic environment where students can regulate their sensory experiences. It includes tools and activities that help them process sensory input in a controlled way, fostering both relaxation and engagement. For children with conditions such as autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorders, this space offers a vital resource to help manage overstimulation, anxiety, or emotional challenges.
From the outset, HC3, along with Invise Ltd, who were the Project Managers on this scheme, were fully immersed in the 10-week project. Invise Ltd, handled every stage from the initial feasibility assessment to project management, contract administration, and design services. The result is a space tailored to the needs of the academy and its students, designed to create a calming, supportive environment that promotes wellbeing and learning.
The comprehensive refurbishment saw the creation of several purpose-built facilities, including a sensory teaching area, a de-escalation room, an accessible shower, a kitchen, and a dedicated storage area, all within a secure section of the school.
HC3 is pleased to report that the project was completed both on time and under budget, all within the contingencies and allocated grant funding. It’s a fantastic example of our commitment to delivering high-quality, well-executed projects that make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.
