Alleyn’s Secures Double Finalist Spot at the Education Property Awards 2026 

Alleyn’s is delighted to announce that we have been named finalists for two categories at the Education Property Awards 2026: SEND Project of the Year for our AIM (Access, Inclusion and Mentoring) Centre, and Interior Design Project of the Year for our innovative classroom redesign initiative. 

Every new build at Alleyn’s is shaped by our holistic design philosophy, ALL Spaces, which brings together inclusivity, sustainability, visual identity and wellbeing into a single, coherent framework. As our Chief Operating Officer, Guy Collins-Down says, 

“It is fantastic to see our “All Spaces” Design Philosophy being recognised in this way. We care deeply about the learning environment and believe in the power of marginal gains through ensuring every detail is looked at, allowing our community to be all they can be. Thank you to our amazing partners for helping us interpret and deliver our vision.” 

Finalist - SEND Project of the Year: Alleyn’s AIM Centre 

The AIM Centre represents a transformative approach to supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Relocated from two undersized rooms, the new purpose-built Centre places inclusion, accessibility and wellbeing at the heart of school life. 

Designed through extensive workshops with pupils, families and staff, every aspect of the centre—from acoustics and lighting to layout and material choices—was shaped by lived experience. Rooms were individually tailored to specific therapeutic and learning needs, avoiding uniformity and promoting dignity, comfort and calm. 

Key features include bespoke learning support rooms, integrated staff spaces, zoned sensory areas with “acoustic bubble” cubbies, and an acoustically optimised classroom.  

Finalist - Interior Design Project of the Year: Reimagining Classrooms 

Our interior design nomination recognises a pioneering redesign of teaching spaces across the school, developed with teachers and the Student Council. The project focuses on marginal gains; small, research-led improvements in acoustics, lighting, layout and accessibility that together enhance learning outcomes and wellbeing. 

The first phase, completed in the Maths Department in September 2025, includes acoustically transformed classrooms, a Harkness-style seminar room, colour-matched interiors designed using LRV principles, ergonomic furniture, simplified technology, smart lockers, and warm, even lighting that reduces glare and supports concentration. 

Now being adopted across our campuses, this approach sets a new standard for inclusive, sustainable and learner-centred environments at Alleyn’s. 

Being shortlisted for these two awards is a proud moment for our community and reflects the collaborative effort of pupils, staff, designers and partners. Most importantly, it reaffirms our commitment to creating spaces where every individual can thrive. 

We look forward to the awards ceremony in 2026 and thank everyone who contributed to these transformative projects.