Priority 2: accessible physical environments
We are committed to ensuring that all schools and education settings in Southend-on-Sea provide physical environments that enable CYP with disabilities to fully access education and participate in every aspect of school life.
Environmental access refers to the physical features that support or limit inclusion, including:
- entrances, exits, corridors, and classrooms
- toilets, changing rooms, and washing facilities
- lighting, acoustics, signage, and furniture
- outdoor areas, parking, and emergency evacuation routes
Creating inclusive spaces is essential to ensuring every pupil can engage, learn, and thrive.
Schools will:
- use funding to ensure that the physical environment (inside and outside) are accessible
- use auxiliary aids like text-to-speech software, Braille materials or screen readers, speech-to-text services, communication boards or devices, large print materials
- include parking, toilets, and exits in Accessibility Plans
- regularly review the physical accessibility of the site (in the school building and beyond)
- write Personal Evacuation Emergency Plans (PEEPS) for learners that require this in partnership with the CYP in the event of an emergency and make sure that all staff and families are aware of the content
- complete accessibility audits and publish plans on their website
- ensure their physical environments are inclusive and responsive to individual needs
For physical disabilities:
- ramps, handrails, and widened doorways
- adapted toilets and changing facilities
- accessible classroom layouts and exits
For sensory needs:
- quiet or sensory spaces, flexible learning spaces
- visual timetables, braille and large print materials
- induction loops, acoustic treatments, and clear signage
While new school buildings must meet current accessibility regulations, additional adaptations may still be required to meet the specific needs of individual pupils
The Local Authority will:
- maintain and update local guidance on accessibility
- monitor accessibility compliance in maintained schools
- monitor PEEPS in LA maintained schools
- engage with families and provide feedback on progress
- support schools with risk assessments for site access and trips through the SEND Therapy Service, EPUT (occupational therapist support on designing or changing a space, e.g. toilets, changing areas), Visual and Hearing Service specialists, Specialist Teacher Service and the Educational Visits Service and EVOLVE (EVS management system)