Claremont SEN School, Hydrotherapy Pool

Project delivered by: Hatcher Prichard

The John James Building at Claremont Secondary SEN School in Redland, Bristol, is a purpose-built hydrotherapy pool designed to serve secondary-aged pupils with severe learning difficulties. It provides therapeutic benefits to students at the school, offering a specialised space for physical rehabilitation and sensory stimulation. This project represents a significant step forward in the provision of care for those with disabilities, allowing them to access a facility tailored to their specific needs, enhancing their overall well-being.

The vision for this project was to create a transformative space where individuals can access the profound therapeutic benefits of hydrotherapy. For many users, their first session in a hydrotherapy pool offers a life-changing experience - relief from pain. By combining warm water, high air temperatures, and weightlessness, the pool environment facilitates movement that would otherwise be difficult. This approach allows for more personalised exercises compared to traditional physiotherapy, which can lead to improved mobility and quality of life.

The design focused on creating a refined, spa-like atmosphere that promotes both physical relief and emotional well-being. The school emphasised the need for a calming, sensory-rich environment where students would feel safe, supported, and comfortable. To achieve this, the design incorporates natural light, benches to assist with transfers into the pool, water jets that provide gentle massage once in the warm water, and a hoist system for accessibility. The building comprises a hydrotherapy pool, changing facility and office.

To meet planning policy, the building's carbon emissions were reduced by 20% through the use of renewable energy systems. Passive design strategies, such as low U-values and natural daylight from roof lights and clerestory glazing, were prioritised to minimise energy consumption. High heat demand in the pool area is addressed with heat pump dehumidification, solar hot water heating, and PV panels. The pool hall roof, made of glulam beams and plywood decking, is supported by a steel frame that stabilises the masonry walls and accommodates clerestory glazing for improved energy efficiency.

The hydrotherapy pool’s design directly benefits the community by providing access to essential healthcare services, particularly for individuals with disabilities who often face barriers to receiving adequate physical therapy. By improving mobility and quality of life for users, the project creates lasting social value while being mindful of sustainable building practices.