Birmingham, B23 7AT
Hive College New SEN Food Technology Room
New Practical & Accessible SEN Food Training Room
The Hive College is a further education college in the West Midlands that supports young adults aged 19-25 with disabilities and additional learning needs.
The college focuses on helping students develop the skills they need for independent living, employment, and involvement in the community. With specialist staff, modern facilities, and strong links to employers, The Hive offers tailored study programmes designed to build confidence and prepare students for life after education. Whether through work experience, life skills training, or community-based learning, the college is committed to helping every student reach their full potential.
CONTACT & MORE
The brief
As part of Hive College’s remodelling and expansion, the principal approached Innova in July 2021 to design and quote for a new SEN food training room. The goal was to create a space where young adults could learn essential life skills, with a focus on cooking and healthy eating.
With students of varying disabilities and needs, the design had to accommodate a range of complex requirements to ensure a practical, engaging, and inclusive learning environment. Innova’s designers carefully planned the layout to suit the space and student capacity, following CLEAPSS, Building Bulletins and DDA guidelines.
After the design was approved, a detailed quotation was provided. In November 2021, several contractors requested Innova’s design and quote as part of their tender submissions. The project was officially awarded to Innova in May 2022, when E. Manton building contractors placed the order.
The solution
Designed with E. Manton Limited, Innova created a practical and accessible SEN food training room with plenty of space for movement. The layout ensures all students, regardless of mobility or learning needs, can take part in cooking activities. With a colour scheme that ties into the College’s branding, the room provides a welcoming space to help students build essential life skills.
Key Features:
• Height-adjustable sinks and hobs – Allows all students to take part in cooking and cleaning tasks
• Height-adjustable desks – Adaptable workstations for comfort and accessibility during non-practical sessions.
• Side-opening ovens – Safer and easier access for all students.
• Trespa worktops – Durable, moisture resistant Trespa TopLab Base worktops to help withstand severe use and frequent cleaning.
• Low-level storage – Keeps essentials within easy reach for all abilities.
Final Thoughts
The new SEN food training room at Hive College is a fully inclusive, practical space designed to support students in developing essential life skills. With a focus on accessibility, durability, and ease of use, the room ensures that all students, regardless of their needs, can engage in cooking and independent living activities.
Spotlight on interiors
Laboratory & Prep Rooms State-of-the-art, flexible laboratories to engage students and accommodate different teaching styles
SEN Interiors
ICT Suites Accessible, ergonomic, low-maintenance ICT suites to keep pace with learning technologies
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