Rowan Tree Primary School, Wigan – Projects

With planning permission recently secured, Rowan Tree School, which is currently operating across three separate buildings, is set to be consolidated into a new purpose-built, single-storey facility and located on the vacant site of the former Our Lady of the Rosary RC School in Leigh.

Designed specifically for children with special educational needs, the new school will cater for pupils with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), specific learning disabilities (SLD), and profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD).

The 3,739 sq m facility will include 19 SEND classrooms and two reception classrooms. Each classroom will have direct access to a dedicated group room, calm room, storage facilities, and an enclosed outdoor play area with a canopy. A range of specialist learning environments will support the diverse needs of pupils, including sensory immersion spaces, rebound therapy facilities, soft play areas, and messy play zones, all complemented by dedicated staff and ancillary accommodation. Accessibility is a key feature of the design, with every classroom linked directly to external play spaces. The proposal also aims to improve safeguarding and site security, addressing challenges associated with the school's current open and dispersed arrangement.

By bringing all pupils and staff together on a single site, the new development will provide a modern, inclusive, and secure learning environment tailored to the needs of children with complex learning disabilities.