A former rectory in Market Bosworth has been transformed into a new school designed specifically for students with Special Educational Needs. The Grade II listed Old Rectory, located on Rectory Lane, now serves children aged 5 to 11 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including those with speech, language, and communication challenges, as well as other complex learning needs.

The Brief

Given the building's listed status and its location within a conservation area, preserving and enhancing its historic character was a top priority. Additionally, the rural setting—rich in wildlife—demanded a thoughtful and sensitive approach to any external changes, particularly in terms of lighting.

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The Solution

One of the key environmental considerations in the school's renovation was protecting the local bat population. Bats are a legally protected species and act as bio-indicators of environmental health. A 2018 bat detection study revealed five different bat species and numerous bat passes in the area, highlighting the presence of a thriving bat community with diverse roosting and foraging sites.

To address this, the O21-W luminaire was selected for perimeter lighting. This highly energy-efficient lighting product is Dark Sky-Certified and was designed in accordance with Dark Sky principles from the outset. It emits light only where it is needed—in a downward direction—minimising light spill into the night sky.



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The Result

By installing Dark Sky-Certified lighting, the project has successfully balanced the needs of a modern educational facility with the preservation of the natural environment. The carefully selected lighting protects the nocturnal habits of bats and other wildlife, preventing disruption to hunting, feeding, and pollination activities. As a result, the local ecosystem remains undisturbed, allowing both the school and its surrounding environment to thrive in harmony.

Products Installed