The Challenge
Baytree SEN School required a comprehensive accessibility solution to support students with complex physical needs. While the installation of a hydrotherapy pool was a key component of the project, ensuring seamless movement across the school was equally crucial. The challenge was to integrate a hoisting system that would allow effortless transfers between classrooms, hygiene facilities, therapy areas, and recreational spaces, enabling students to engage in daily activities with ease and dignity.
Approach
To address these needs, a fully integrated accessibility plan was developed, combining a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy pool with an extensive ceiling track hoist system. The goal was to:
- Provide therapeutic benefits through hydrotherapy while ensuring safe and efficient transfers.
- Facilitate smooth transitions between learning, therapy, and hygiene spaces.
- Future-proof accessibility by incorporating hoist infrastructure in additional rooms for evolving needs.
The plan included a combination of X-Y inset track systems and AirRise200 hoist units, ensuring flexibility and ease of use across different environments.
Implementation
The accessibility upgrades were implemented across multiple areas of the school, including:
- Hydrotherapy Pool & Changing Rooms – A full-room X-Y hoist system was installed to connect pupil changing rooms with the hydrotherapy pool, allowing effortless transfers for students requiring mobility support.
- Classrooms & Hygiene Rooms – Integrated hoist systems enable students to move seamlessly between learning spaces and hygiene facilities, ensuring comfort and dignity.
- Medical & Physiotherapy Rooms – Dedicated hoisting solutions provide essential support for medical care and rehabilitation activities.
- Trampoline Area – A specialized hoist system facilitates safe participation in rebound therapy, promoting movement and sensory engagement.
- Future-Proofing Accessibility – Additional hoist infrastructure was integrated into sensory rooms, therapy spaces, and life skills areas to ensure long-term adaptability.
Results
The installation of the hydrotherapy pool and hoisting systems has transformed accessibility at Baytree SEN School, enabling students to navigate their surroundings with greater independence. Key outcomes include:
- Enhanced Therapeutic Benefits – The hydrotherapy pool provides essential physical therapy, relaxation, and sensory stimulation, improving student well-being.
- Improved Mobility & Comfort – Students can transition between spaces with ease, reducing physical strain on both students and caregivers.
- Increased Engagement – The ability to access therapy, sensory, and recreational activities more freely has enriched students’ learning experiences.
- Long-Term Accessibility – Future-proofing efforts ensure that the school remains adaptable to the needs of current and future students.
By integrating these accessibility solutions, Baytree SEN School has reinforced its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment, empowering students to thrive.
