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Sensory Spaces: Creating Calm, Confidence and Inclusion Across South Yorkshire

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 12:56:35 GMT

Have You Ever Walked Into a Space That Instantly Makes You Feel Calmer?

In today's busy world, it's not always easy to find a moment to pause. Bright lights, loud noises, crowded environments, and constant demands can feel overwhelming for many people, particularly those who are autistic, neurodivergent, have SEND needs, anxiety, dementia, or sensory processing differences.

This is where sensory spaces can make a life-changing difference.

More than just a room, a sensory space provides a safe, supportive environment where individuals can regulate emotions, reduce stress, improve focus, and feel comfortable being themselves. Whether located in a school, college, healthcare setting, workplace, community venue, or public space, a well-designed sensory environment can help people feel calmer, more confident and more able to engage with the world around them.

What Is a Sensory Room?

A sensory room is a dedicated environment designed to stimulate or calm the senses through carefully selected sensory products, lighting, sounds, textures, colours, and interactive experiences.

Every sensory room is unique because every person experiences the world differently. The best sensory spaces are designed around the needs of the people who will use them, creating an environment that supports regulation, communication, learning, relaxation, or exploration.

Sensory rooms can be beneficial for:

Autistic individuals
Children and adults with SEND
People with ADHD
Individuals experiencing anxiety or stress
Those with sensory processing differences
People living with dementia
Learners in schools and colleges
Employees requiring wellbeing support
Visitors to public venues, airports and community spaces

Why Are Sensory Spaces Important?

For many individuals, everyday environments can become overwhelming.

Busy classrooms, noisy workplaces, crowded public spaces, and unfamiliar surroundings can lead to sensory overload, anxiety, frustration, or emotional dysregulation.

A dedicated sensory space provides an opportunity to:

✅ Self-regulate emotions

✅ Reduce anxiety and stress

✅ Improve concentration and attention

✅ Encourage communication and interaction

✅ Support emotional wellbeing

✅ Promote independence

✅ Create inclusive environments

✅ Enhance learning and engagement

When people feel safe and comfortable, they are better able to learn, communicate, participate, and thrive.

Exploring Sensory Products That Make a Difference

The most effective sensory rooms combine a range of sensory equipment and experiences designed to engage multiple senses.

Immersive LED Lighting

Lighting is often one of the first things people notice when entering a sensory room.

Colour-changing LED lighting helps create calming visual experiences that can be tailored to individual preferences. Soft hues can encourage relaxation, while brighter colours can support engagement and interaction.

Dynamic lighting systems allow users to take control of their environment, helping them feel empowered and comfortable.

Bubble Tubes

Bubble tubes remain one of the most popular sensory products available.

The combination of rising bubbles, changing colours and gentle movement creates a fascinating focal point that encourages visual tracking, relaxation and engagement.

Many users find bubble tubes soothing and calming, making them ideal for emotional regulation and sensory exploration.

Interactive Sensory Walls

Interactive sensory walls encourage hands-on engagement through touch, movement and visual feedback.

These features can support:

Fine motor development
Cause-and-effect learning
Exploration and creativity
Social interaction
Independent play

Interactive equipment transforms a sensory room from a passive environment into an engaging experience where individuals can actively participate.

Fibre Optic Lighting

Fibre optic sensory products provide safe, tactile sensory stimulation.

Soft strands of light can be touched, moved and explored, offering a calming and visually captivating sensory experience.

These products are particularly popular in SEND settings where users benefit from gentle sensory feedback and relaxation opportunities.

Soft Seating and Retreat Areas

A sensory room should always offer a place to pause and unwind.

Soft seating, sensory bean bags, crash mats and cosy corners provide comfortable spaces where individuals can rest, self-regulate and feel secure.

These retreat areas often become some of the most valuable parts of a sensory room because they allow users to take a break when needed without leaving the environment entirely.

Sensory Projection Systems

Interactive projectors and sensory projection systems bring walls and floors to life.

From underwater scenes and nature environments to educational games and calming visuals, projection technology can create immersive experiences that support learning, engagement and wellbeing.

Sensory Rooms for Schools in South Yorkshire

Across South Yorkshire, schools are increasingly recognising the benefits of dedicated sensory spaces.

Sensory rooms can support:

Emotional regulation
Positive behaviour strategies
SEND provision
Inclusion initiatives
Wellbeing programmes
Intervention sessions

For schools in Doncaster, Rotherham, Sheffield and Barnsley, a sensory room can become an invaluable resource that benefits learners throughout the school day.

By providing a safe space for pupils who may be struggling with sensory overload, schools can help learners return to lessons feeling calmer, more focused and ready to engage.

Supporting South Yorkshire Communities Through Inclusive Design

Creating inclusive environments is about more than meeting requirements.

It's about recognising that everyone experiences the world differently and ensuring that spaces are accessible, welcoming and supportive for all.

Across South Yorkshire, demand is growing for sensory spaces in:

Schools and colleges
Community centres
Healthcare settings
Libraries
Airports
Leisure facilities
Family attractions
Workplaces
Youth services

As awareness of neurodiversity continues to grow, organisations are increasingly investing in sensory room design to create environments that genuinely support wellbeing and inclusion.

A Space to Explore. A Space to Regulate. A Space to Belong.

A sensory room is more than lighting, equipment and furniture.

It's a place where someone can take a breath.

A place where anxiety can be reduced.

A place where confidence can grow.

A place where people feel understood, supported and included.

Whether you're a school, healthcare provider, community organisation or business in Doncaster, Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley or elsewhere in South Yorkshire, investing in a sensory space can have a lasting impact on the people who use it.

Looking to Create a Sensory Room in South Yorkshire?

At AmbiSpace , we design and install bespoke sensory rooms, sensory spaces and immersive environments tailored to the needs of each organisation and user group.

From concept and design through to installation, we help schools, colleges, healthcare providers and community organisations create sensory environments that inspire calm, engagement and inclusion.

Get in touch today to discuss your sensory room project and discover how the right sensory space can transform lives.

info@ambispace.co.uk

Related Topics

#SensoryRoom #SensorySpaces #Neurodiversity #SEND #InclusiveDesign #EmotionalRegulation #Wellbeing #Accessibility #SouthYorkshire #Doncaster #Sheffield #Rotherham #Barnsley #AmbiSpace

Manchester Airport Takes Off with New Inclusive Ambispace Sensory Rooms for Passengers

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 13:10:57 GMT

Creating Calmer Journeys: AmbiSpace Helps Deliver New Sensory Rooms at Manchester Airport Terminal 2

Travelling through a busy airport can be an overwhelming experience for many people. To help make air travel more accessible and inclusive, Manchester Airport has unveiled a brand-new sensory space within Terminal 2 , designed to support passengers who may benefit from a calmer environment before their flight.

Known as the Sunflower Zone , the new facility has been created through a partnership between Manchester Airport and AmbiSpace , with valuable input and expertise from the National Autistic Society , special assistance provider ABM , and the Manchester Airport Disability Forum .

A Sensory Space Designed for Different Needs

The Sunflower Room has been carefully designed to accommodate a wide range of sensory preferences and support needs.

At the centre of the space is a calming, low-stimulus area where passengers can sit, relax and self-regulate in a quieter environment before travelling. This dedicated relaxation zone provides a welcoming space for anyone who may need a moment away from the busy sights and sounds of a major international airport.

Connected to this central area are two additional sensory rooms featuring:

Interactive sensory panels
Bubble tubes
Colour-changing sensory lighting
Engaging sensory activities
Opportunities for sensory exploration and regulation

The combination of calming and interactive environments allows passengers to choose the space that best meets their individual needs.

Bringing Sensory Inclusion to Air Travel

For AmbiSpace, the project represents an exciting milestone.

Over the years, AmbiSpace has designed and installed sensory rooms and inclusive spaces across the UK, supporting schools, colleges, healthcare settings, shopping centres, public venues and many other organisations. The Manchester Airport project marks the company's first sensory room installation within an international airport environment.

Dean Cook, Marketing Manager at AmbiSpace, said:

"We're proud to have helped bring this space to life. While we've created sensory rooms in many different settings, this is our first project within an international airport.

The goal was to create a flexible space that supports a wide range of needs, combining calm, low-stimulation areas with interactive sensory experiences."

Supporting Accessibility and Inclusion

The Sunflower Room forms part of Manchester Airport's ongoing commitment to accessibility, inclusion and passenger wellbeing.

By providing a dedicated sensory environment, the airport is helping ensure that more people can travel with confidence, comfort and dignity, regardless of their sensory needs.

Dean added:

"Inclusive spaces can make a huge difference to someone's experience. The opportunity to pause, regulate and feel comfortable before travelling can help reduce anxiety and make air travel more accessible.

AmbiSpace is delighted to have worked alongside Manchester Airport and its partners on such an important project, and we look forward to continuing that relationship in the future."

A Positive Step Towards More Inclusive Travel

The opening of the Sunflower Room is another important step towards creating more accessible public spaces and demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together with inclusion at the heart of the design process.

As more transport hubs, workplaces and public venues recognise the importance of sensory inclusion, projects like this help create environments where everyone feels supported and welcomed.

We're incredibly proud to have contributed to this project and look forward to seeing the positive impact the Sunflower Room has on passengers travelling through Manchester Airport Terminal 2.

#ManchesterAirport #SensoryRoom #SensorySpaces #SensoryInclusion #Accessibility #Neurodiversity #InclusiveDesign #AirportAccessibility #TravelForAll #AutismAcceptance #NeurodivergentSupport #Wellbeing #PublicSpaces #AmbiSpace #SunflowerRoom #InclusiveTravel #SensoryEnvironment #SpecialAssistance #Terminal2 #ManchesterAirportTerminal2

A Fantastic Three Days at Neuroplaces Expo 2026

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 10:21:45 GMT

Neurodiversity Expo 2026: Ambispace Showcases Sensory Rooms, Sensory Nooks and Inclusive Spaces Across the UK

Connecting with the Neurodiversity Community

Last week, George had the pleasure of representing Ambispace at Neurodiversity Expo 2026 , and what an incredible experience it was.

Over the three-day event, he spoke with a diverse range of visitors, from someone living just a mile away from our headquarters in Doncaster, South Yorkshire , to attendees who had travelled from as far as Japan. These conversations reinforced something we see every day: as modern life becomes increasingly busy and demanding, the need for sensory-friendly spaces , quiet rooms , and environments that support wellbeing, focus, and emotional regulation continues to grow.

The event brought together professionals, educators, healthcare providers, employers, parents, and neurodivergent individuals who all shared a common goal: creating more accessible, inclusive environments where people can thrive.

Why Sensory Spaces Matter More Than Ever

Today's schools, workplaces, healthcare settings, and public spaces are recognising the positive impact that dedicated sensory environments can have on wellbeing and productivity.

While sensory rooms and sensory regulation spaces are often associated with supporting autistic people, individuals with ADHD, and other neurodivergent individuals, their benefits extend far beyond this. Calm, thoughtfully designed spaces can help reduce stress, improve concentration, support emotional wellbeing, and provide a place to reset during challenging moments.

As awareness of neurodiversity , accessibility , and inclusive design continues to increase, organisations are actively looking for practical ways to better support their communities, employees, students, and visitors.

Showcasing Ambispace's Sensory Solutions

At Neurodiversity Expo 2026, Ambispace was proud to showcase our range of Sensory Nooks , bespoke sensory rooms , workplace wellbeing spaces , and inclusive sensory environments .

Designed and manufactured in Doncaster, South Yorkshire , our sensory solutions are installed throughout the UK, helping organisations create calm, comfortable environments tailored to their unique requirements.

Visitors were particularly interested in how our sensory spaces can support:

Schools and colleges
SEND and SEN environments
Universities and learning centres
Workplaces and offices
Healthcare facilities
Public venues and community spaces
Customer-facing environments
Staff wellbeing areas

From compact Sensory Nooks to fully customised sensory rooms , our solutions help organisations create spaces that support wellbeing, focus, accessibility, and inclusion.

Creating Inclusive Spaces for Schools and Education

Many conversations at the expo centred around the growing demand for school sensory rooms , SEND sensory spaces , and environments that help learners feel supported both academically and emotionally.

Educators shared how dedicated sensory spaces can help students regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, improve concentration, and enhance engagement with learning. These spaces are becoming an increasingly valuable part of creating inclusive educational environments where every learner has the opportunity to succeed.

At Ambispace, we work closely with schools, colleges, and educational providers to design sensory spaces that meet the needs of their students while making the most of available space and budgets.

Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace

A key theme throughout the event was the increasing focus on neurodiversity in the workplace .

Many employers are recognising that creating workplace sensory rooms , wellbeing spaces , and quiet areas can have a significant impact on employee wellbeing, productivity, and inclusion. As organisations strive to attract and retain diverse talent, providing environments that support sensory and wellbeing needs is becoming an important part of workplace design.

Our workplace sensory solutions help businesses create supportive spaces where employees can recharge, focus, regulate sensory input, and perform at their best.

A Shared Passion for Accessibility and Inclusion

One of the most inspiring aspects of Neurodiversity Expo 2026 was hearing from individuals and organisations who are passionate about improving accessibility for everyone.

Whether visitors were supporting children with additional needs, leading diversity and inclusion initiatives, working within healthcare, or sharing their own neurodivergent experiences, the message was clear: sensory spaces should be more widely available and accessible.

What stood out most was the desire to create environments that benefit everyone, not just specific groups. The principles of inclusive design help create spaces that are welcoming, comfortable, and supportive for all users.

Designed and Manufactured in the UK

As a UK-based sensory room provider, Ambispace takes pride in designing, manufacturing, and installing bespoke sensory solutions from our base in Doncaster, South Yorkshire .

From initial consultation through to installation, our team works closely with clients across the UK to create sensory environments that meet specific needs, objectives, and budgets.

This end-to-end approach allows us to deliver high-quality bespoke sensory rooms , Sensory Nooks , and sensory-friendly spaces that make a meaningful difference in educational, workplace, healthcare, and public environments.

Looking Ahead

We're excited to have made so many valuable new connections and look forward to continuing these conversations in the months ahead.

Neurodiversity Expo 2026 highlighted the growing demand for sensory rooms , sensory-friendly spaces , inclusive workplace solutions , and accessible environments across the UK. It was a privilege to showcase how Ambispace is helping organisations create spaces that support wellbeing, accessibility, neurodiversity, and inclusion.

Thank You from Ambispace

A huge thank you to everyone who visited our stand, shared their experiences, and supported our mission.

Every conversation reinforced why creating accessible sensory environments matters. Together, we can continue building spaces that enable people to feel comfortable, supported, and empowered to thrive.

"It was a fantastic three days for Ambispace, and we're excited for what's next!"

Hashtags

#Ambispace #NeurodiversityExpo2026 #SensoryRoomsUK #BespokeSensoryRooms #SensoryFriendlySpaces #SensorySpaces #SensoryNooks #Neurodiversity #NeurodiversityInclusion #NeurodivergentSupport #AutismFriendly #AutismFriendlyEnvironments #InclusiveDesign #Accessibility #AccessibilitySolutions #WorkplaceWellbeing #WorkplaceWellbeingSolutions #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #SensoryRegulation #SensoryRegulationSpaces #QuietSpaces #SEND #SENSupport #SensoryInclusion #InclusiveWorkplaces #Doncaster #SouthYorkshire #UKManufacturing

Harry Rigg (The Don) Visited Our Sensory Igloo at DGLAM’s Night at the Museum

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 09:50:06 GMT

Harry Rigg (The Don) Visited Our Sensory Igloo at DGLAM’s Night at the Museum

Around three months ago, we had the pleasure of welcoming Harry Rigg from The Don into our AmbiSpace Sensory Igloo during the popular Night at the Museum event at Danum Gallery, Library and Museum (DGLAM) in Doncaster . It was a fantastic evening celebrating creativity, community engagement, accessibility, and inclusive experiences for visitors of all ages.

The event brought together local families, artists, community groups, and accessibility advocates, creating an environment where everyone could feel welcome and supported. As part of the evening, Harry took time to explore our sensory inflatable space, learn about the benefits of sensory regulation, and experience first-hand how our sensory environment can support neurodivergent individuals in busy public settings.

Raising Awareness of Sensory Inclusion

Harry's enthusiasm and genuine interest helped raise awareness of the growing need for sensory-friendly spaces at public events, museums, schools, libraries, festivals, and community venues. By sharing his experience with his audience, he highlighted how simple accessibility solutions can make a significant difference for people who may experience sensory overload, anxiety, autism-related challenges, ADHD, or other sensory processing differences.

Creating inclusive environments is becoming increasingly important as organisations across the UK look for ways to improve accessibility and support diverse visitor needs. Sensory spaces provide a calm, safe retreat where individuals can regulate their emotions, reduce stress, and take a break from overwhelming sights, sounds, and crowds.

How the AmbiSpace Sensory Igloo Supports Visitors

The AmbiSpace Sensory Igloo was designed to create a peaceful and immersive sensory experience. Whether used at a museum event, educational setting, healthcare environment, corporate wellbeing event, or community gathering, the igloo offers a quiet sanctuary for those seeking a moment of calm.

Benefits of the Sensory Igloo include:

A spacious interior suitable for individuals, families, and support workers
Improved wheelchair accessibility with a wider entrance
Reduced sensory stimulation from busy surroundings
A calming environment for emotional regulation
Flexible use with sensory lighting, projections, soundscapes, and interactive sensory equipment
Suitable for autism-friendly events and neurodiversity-inclusive programmes

Introducing the AmbiSpace Sensory Cave

Since Harry's visit, we're excited to share that AmbiSpace has expanded its sensory offering with two distinct sensory inflatable spaces:

Sensory Igloo

Our most accessible sensory environment, featuring:

Enhanced wheelchair access
Larger internal floor space
Comfortable group capacity
Flexible sensory equipment integration
Ideal for schools, museums, libraries, exhibitions, healthcare settings, and public events

Sensory Cave

A more enclosed and immersive sensory space designed for:

Low-light sensory experiences
Relaxation and mindfulness sessions
Therapeutic sensory activities
Calming environments with greater privacy
Interactive projection and ambient lighting experiences

The Sensory Cave creates a unique atmosphere that can be tailored to suit a wide range of sensory support needs while maintaining a comfortable and safe environment.

Supporting Neurodiversity Through Sensory Spaces

As awareness of neurodiversity , autism inclusion , and sensory accessibility continues to grow, sensory spaces are increasingly being recognised as an essential part of modern event planning and public engagement.

Our sensory environments are designed to support:

Autistic children and adults
People with ADHD
Individuals with sensory processing differences
Visitors experiencing anxiety or stress
Families seeking quieter spaces during events
Anyone who would benefit from a calm and regulated environment

By providing dedicated sensory support areas, venues can improve visitor wellbeing, encourage greater participation, and create truly inclusive experiences for everyone.

Bringing Sensory Experiences to Doncaster and Beyond

Harry's visit demonstrated how sensory spaces can be seamlessly incorporated into museums, cultural venues, educational settings, festivals, exhibitions, schools, and community events. These dedicated environments allow people to pause, recharge, self-regulate, and re-engage with activities when they feel ready.

At AmbiSpace, we're proud to be helping organisations across Doncaster , South Yorkshire , and the wider UK improve accessibility through innovative sensory room alternatives , sensory inflatables , mobile sensory spaces , and inclusive event solutions .

We'd like to thank Harry once again for taking the time to visit our sensory space and helping spread awareness of the positive impact that sensory-inclusive environments can have on communities.

As demand for sensory-friendly events continues to grow, we're excited to keep supporting schools, museums, councils, charities, healthcare providers, and event organisers in creating more welcoming and accessible experiences for everyone.

Interested in hiring a Sensory Igloo or Sensory Cave for your event, school, museum, library, wellbeing programme, or community venue? Contact AmbiSpace today to learn more about our mobile sensory environments and sensory inclusion solutions.

Sensory Igloo | AmbiSpace

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The Hidden Cost of Sensory Overload in UK Schools, and How Sensory Spaces Change Everything

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 12:43:24 GMT

The Hidden Cost of Sensory Overload in UK Schools, and How Sensory Spaces Change Everything

Sensory overload is one of the most misunderstood barriers to learning in UK schools. It affects thousands of autistic and neurodivergent pupils every day, yet it often goes unseen, unspoken, and unsupported. For many children, the school environment itself is the trigger: bright lights, unpredictable noise, crowded corridors, sudden transitions, and constant sensory demands.

At AmbiSpace, we see the impact of this daily. We also see the transformation that happens when schools introduce properly designed sensory spaces, environments that regulate, calm, and empower pupils to thrive. As the UK continues to push for stronger SEND provision, sensory inclusion is no longer a “nice to have”. It’s essential.

What Sensory Overload Really Looks Like in UK Classrooms

Sensory overload isn’t simply “stress” or “distraction”. It’s a full‑body neurological response. For autistic and ADHD pupils, everyday school experiences can trigger:

Intense noise sensitivity
Visual overwhelm from lighting or movement
Difficulty filtering background sounds
Physical discomfort from textures, seating, or temperature
Emotional shutdowns or meltdowns
Fight‑or‑flight responses during transitions

These aren’t behavioural choices. They’re physiological reactions, and they directly affect learning, wellbeing, and attendance.

The Hidden Cost for Schools

When sensory needs aren’t met, the consequences ripple across the entire school community:

Increased dysregulation and behaviour incidents
Reduced engagement and participation
Higher levels of anxiety and school avoidance
Struggles with transitions and classroom readiness
Lower academic confidence
Strained relationships between pupils, staff, and families

Many schools try to respond with “quiet rooms” or empty breakout spaces. But without sensory‑informed design, these rooms often go unused, or worse, become associated with punishment rather than regulation.

What a True Sensory Space Does Differently

A sensory space is not just a room. It’s a carefully designed environment that supports the nervous system. When done properly, it provides:

Predictable lighting that reduces visual overwhelm
Calming soundscapes that support emotional regulation
Tactile and interactive features that encourage grounding
Safe seating and soft zones for decompression
Tools for self ‑ regulation , not adult‑led intervention
A positive, welcoming atmosphere that builds confidence

The result is profound. Pupils return to class calmer, more focused, and ready to learn. Staff report fewer incidents and smoother transitions. Families see improvements in wellbeing at home. And schools gain a practical, evidence‑based tool that supports SEND outcomes.

Real Impact in UK Schools

Across Doncaster, Yorkshire, and beyond, AmbiSpace sensory rooms are helping schools:

Reduce dysregulation during high‑stress times
Support autistic and ADHD pupils with transitions
Provide safe spaces during sensory overwhelm
Improve attendance for pupils with anxiety
Strengthen SEND provision and inclusion strategies
Build trust with families who feel seen and supported

These aren’t theoretical benefits — they’re lived experiences from pupils, teachers, and parents who use these spaces every day.

Why Schools Need Sensory Inclusion Now More Than Ever

With the UK’s ongoing SEND reforms, schools are under increasing pressure to demonstrate:

Strong inclusion practices
Effective regulation strategies
Support for neurodivergent pupils
Reduced behaviour incidents
Improved wellbeing and attendance

Sensory spaces directly support these priorities. They’re one of the most impactful, cost‑effective ways to improve outcomes for pupils who need it most.

How AmbiSpace Can Help

AmbiSpace specialises in designing sensory environments built on lived autistic experience, evidence‑based practice, and real‑world school needs. We offer:

Sensory audits
Full sensory room design and installation
Sensory Nooks and portable regulation spaces
Staff training on sensory‑informed practice
Ongoing support and consultation

Every space is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and tailored to the unique needs of each school.

Final Thought

Sensory overload isn’t a behaviour problem. It’s a support problem. And when schools provide the right environment, pupils don’t just cope, they flourish.

Newspaper Article:

When the classroom becomes too loud: The rising crisis of sensory overload in UK Schools

New Sensory Nook Pod Brings Additional Calm, Safety and Inclusion to Bentley Youth Hub

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 12:48:08 GMT

New Sensory Nook Pod Brings Additional Calm, Safety and Inclusion to Bentley Youth Hub

A New Sensory Sanctuary for Bentley’s Young People

In the heart of Bentley, where young people gather to socialise, learn and grow, a new addition is already making a remarkable difference. AmbiSpace has installed a brand‑new Sensory Nook Pod at the Bentley Youth Hub, expanding the centre’s commitment to creating safe, inclusive environments for young people aged 8 to 18.

The Youth Hub has long been a lifeline for families across Doncaster, a warm, welcoming space offering sports, activities, social areas and vital youth support. Now, thanks to this new installation, the Hub can provide even more meaningful help to young people who experience sensory processing needs, autism, ADHD or anxiety.

Immediate Impact: A Sensory Pod That Grounds, Supports and Reassures

Sensory spaces like the Nook Pod are designed with intention: soft lighting, acoustic protection, and a calming enclosed structure that helps young people regulate their emotions and sensory input. For many, stepping inside a sensory nook is the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling in control. It offers a moment to breathe, reset and regain confidence before returning to the lively, energetic environment of the Hub.

Courtney, Abi, and Georgia, Staff at Bentley Youth Hub say the impact has been immediate. Young people who previously struggled with noise or busy spaces now have a place where they feel grounded and safe. Parents have expressed relief at seeing their children supported in ways that honour their sensory needs. And youth workers say the pod has strengthened the Hub’s ability to offer inclusive, compassionate care.

Building a Community Where Every Young Person Feels Seen and Safe

This installation is more than a new feature; it’s a statement of values. It shows what can happen when community organisations like Doncaster Council Youth Hub prioritise accessibility, dignity and wellbeing. Bentley Youth Hub continues to set an example for what youth spaces should be: supportive, adaptable and built around the real needs of the young people who rely on them.

With the new Sensory Nook Pod now part of the existing Ambispace sensory spaces at the Hub, Bentley has taken another meaningful step toward becoming a truly inclusive community.

#SensoryNook #AmbiSpace #BentleyYouthHub #Doncaster #Neurodiversity #SensorySupport #AutismSupport #ADHDSupport #SensoryProcessing #YouthWork #CommunitySupport #InclusiveCommunities #SafeSpaces #SENDSupport #AccessibilityMatters #MakingADifference

Nook Stop at Frenchgate: A Quiet Space Bringing Calm to Doncaster Families

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 09:12:35 GMT

Nook Stop Frenchgate: How Doncaster City Centre Sensory Space Helps Shoppers Regulate

Nook Stop Frenchgate: How Doncaster City Centre Sensory Space Helps Shoppers Regulate

Walk through any large shopping centre on a Saturday afternoon and count the sensory demands stacked on top of each other: music playing from three or four shopfronts at once, a tannoy announcement cutting across it, hard floors and glass throwing sound back at you, spotlighting and fluorescent strips overhead, the smell of a food court mixing with perfume counters, and crowds moving in directions you can't predict. For most shoppers, this is background noise. For autistic people, people with sensory processing differences, and anyone experiencing overwhelm, anxiety or sensory pain, it can be the reason a trip ends early, or never starts at all.

Nook Stop at Frenchgate in Doncaster is a response to that reality: a permanent, free-to-use sensory space built into a live city centre shopping centre. This article covers what the space is, who it's designed for, how it supports self-regulation in practical terms, and what schools, businesses, transport hubs and other public venues can take from the approach.

What Is the Nook Stop City Centre Sensory Space?

Nook Stop is a dedicated, low-stimulus sensory space installed within Frenchgate, positioned away from the main flow of shop-front noise and crowd movement so it can actually function as a quiet retreat rather than a quieter corner of the same busy environment. It's enclosed, calm, and separate from the retail noise floor, giving visitors somewhere to step out of the shopping centre experience without leaving the building or ending their trip altogether.

Visits are typically short: long enough to settle, not so long that the space becomes inaccessible to the next person who needs it. That's an important point, because Nook Stop isn't reserved for people with a diagnosis or a support plan. It's there for anyone who needs a moment to reset, whether that's an autistic teenager overwhelmed by the food court, a parent with a distressed toddler, or an older shopper managing a migraine. No proof or explanation is required to use it.

It's worth framing Nook Stop as part of a broader direction rather than a one-off installation. Sensory-inclusive design is increasingly recognised as basic accessibility infrastructure for high streets and shopping centres, in the same category as step-free access or accessible toilets. The Nook Stop sensory space at Frenchgate Doncaster is a working example of what that looks like in practice, not a novelty feature.

Inside the Space: Sound, Light and Layout

The design choices inside Nook Stop are deliberate, and each one addresses a specific sensory trigger found in the wider shopping centre:

• Acoustic treatment reduces reverberation and dampens the ambient retail noise that would otherwise bleed straight into the space, so sound doesn't bounce off hard surfaces the way it does in the mall outside.

• Lighting is dimmed and adjustable rather than harsh overhead strip lighting, removing the flicker and glare that can trigger migraine, eye strain or sensory pain.

• A calm, neutral colour palette avoids the visual competition of retail branding, signage and promotional colour that saturates most shopping environments.

• Comfortable seating supports a longer, more settled recovery rather than encouraging a quick perch and exit.

• Clear sight lines mean nobody using the space feels trapped or cut off, which matters for people whose overwhelm is bound up with anxiety about enclosed spaces.

Why Shopping Centres Are Sensory Pressure Points

Shopping centres concentrate almost every kind of sensory load in one place. Background music plays from multiple stores simultaneously, often at different tempos and volumes, layered under tannoy announcements that cut in unpredictably. Floors, glass frontages and high ceilings create hard, reflective acoustics that amplify rather than absorb sound. Lighting is typically bright, uniform and fluorescent, designed to make merchandise look good rather than to be comfortable to be under for an hour. Food courts, cosmetics counters and cleaning products add layered scent on top of all of that. And crowds move in ways that are genuinely unpredictable: trolleys, pushchairs, groups stopping suddenly, queues forming without warning.

Critically, there's usually no obvious escape route. A shop has a door. A shopping centre is a sealed environment where stepping outside might mean losing your place in a queue, losing sight of the people you came with, or simply not being an option if the exit itself is a long walk through more of the same stimulation.

The knock-on effects are consistent wherever this has been studied or reported anecdotally by retailers and access groups: shortened visits, trips abandoned partway through, and some families or individuals avoiding city and town centres altogether. That's not just a wellbeing issue, it's a commercial one. Visitors who can't complete a trip don't spend, and visitors who associate a venue with overwhelm don't return. Our wider sensory inclusion work at Frenchgate Doncaster treats this as what it is: a design problem with a design solution, not an unavoidable feature of retail environments.

Who Feels It Most

Autistic adults and children are often the first group people think of, and sensory processing differences are frequently part of an autism diagnosis. But the group who benefit from a space like Nook Stop is much wider. It includes people with ADHD, who can find sustained sensory noise exhausting to filter; people with dementia, for whom disorientating environments can trigger distress or confusion; people with PTSD, who may be affected by sudden noise or crowding; and people with chronic pain or migraine, for whom bright lighting and noise are direct physical triggers, not just uncomfortable.

Parents and carers are a significant group too, often managing a child's distress in public with nowhere private to do it. The breadth of that list is the point: sensory-inclusive design is rarely a single-audience investment. A space built for one group tends to help many others who were never the primary design target.

How the Nook Stop Supports Self-Regulation

Regulation, in plain terms, is the process of bringing the nervous system back to a manageable baseline after it's been overloaded by sensory or emotional input. It's not about relaxation for its own sake, it's about restoring enough calm to function, make decisions and continue with the day.

Inside Nook Stop, that process typically happens in stages. The first and most important step is removal: taking away the noise, light, crowding and unpredictability that caused the overload in the first place. Only once that reduction has happened does optional calming input come into play, things like soft lighting, tactile items or gentle ambient sound, and only if the person wants them. The final stage is a controlled re-entry to the shopping environment, on the visitor's own terms and at their own pace.

Two design principles run through the whole process: control and predictability. The person using the space decides what happens next, how long they stay, and when they leave. Nothing is imposed on them. That matters because a sensory space that feels like another environment doing things to the visitor defeats its own purpose. Nook Stop is also used proactively as well as reactively: some visitors call in before they start shopping, as a way of preparing and settling their system in advance rather than waiting until they've already reached crisis point.

Reduce, Then Regulate

It's worth being explicit about the order of operations, because it's the most commonly misunderstood part of sensory space design. Subtracting overwhelming stimuli is the priority. Adding soothing stimuli is secondary, and entirely optional. A common mistake, both in public perception and in poorly designed sensory rooms, is assuming a sensory space means bright interactive lights, bubble tubes and busy equipment. For someone in a state of overload, that kind of environment can add another layer of stimulation rather than removing one. Autism sensory pods designed for low-stimulus regulation are built around this reduce-first principle rather than an entertainment-first one.

Privacy Without Isolation

There's a balance to strike between enclosure and safety. A space that feels too exposed doesn't offer genuine relief, because the visitor still feels watched. A space that feels too sealed off can trigger a different kind of anxiety, particularly for people with claustrophobia or a history of being confined against their will. Nook Stop is designed to sit between those two extremes: enclosed enough to feel private and separate from the shop floor, but never locked, and never out of sight of a safe route back out. Carers and family members can accompany a user comfortably, which matters for children, for people with dementia, and for anyone who regulates better with a trusted person nearby rather than completely alone.

What Retail and Public Space Operators Can Learn

The principles behind Nook Stop transfer directly to schools, workplaces, transport hubs, libraries, leisure venues and other shopping centres. A few practical considerations tend to determine whether a sensory space succeeds or quietly fails:

• Siting: accessible enough to be found and used easily, but positioned away from the loudest footfall and noise sources so it actually offers relief.

• Signage and wayfinding: clear, simple, and visible from a reasonable distance, since someone in sensory overload may struggle to search for a hidden facility.

• Staff awareness: frontline staff should know the space exists, what it's for, and how to point someone toward it without making a scene of it.

• Cleaning and maintenance: a sensory space needs a clear routine and owner, or it degrades quickly and stops being usable.

• Booking versus open access: open access suits high-footfall public venues like shopping centres, while a booking system may suit workplaces or schools with more predictable, planned use.

• Measuring impact: dwell time, footfall trends, direct visitor feedback, and engagement with local access and disability groups all give a realistic picture of whether the space is working.

One practical point that matters for leased retail units in particular: a well-designed sensory pod can be installed without major building works, using a standard power connection rather than structural alteration. That makes sensory provision achievable even where leasehold terms or budgets would rule out a fully built room.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few recurring mistakes explain why some sensory spaces fail to deliver value:

• Repurposing a spare storeroom with no acoustic treatment, so it's quieter than the shop floor but still far from calm.

• Filling the space with over-stimulating equipment rather than prioritising reduction of sensory input.

• Poor or absent signage, so the space exists but nobody who needs it knows it's there.

• No long-term plan for upkeep, which means the space slowly becomes an overflow storage area within months.

• No named owner responsible for maintenance, cleaning and monitoring use, so accountability quietly disappears.

Planning a Sensory Space for Your Own Venue

If you're considering a sensory space for a school, workplace, transport hub or shopping centre, a straightforward planning process helps avoid the common pitfalls above. Start by understanding your users: who are they, what triggers overwhelm for them specifically, and what would genuine relief look like in your setting. Next, audit the existing sensory environment: measure and observe the noise, lighting and crowd patterns your visitors are actually dealing with, rather than assuming.

From there, decide between a fitted room, which requires construction work and suits a permanent, purpose-built area, and a self-contained pod, which can be installed with minimal disruption and relocated later if your needs change. Plan supervision and access from the outset, deciding whether the space will be open access or booked, and who is responsible for its day-to-day upkeep. Finally, consult the people who will actually use it. Access groups, disabled staff or customers, and organisations with direct experience of sensory design will identify problems a plan drawn up in isolation will miss.

AmbiSpace has spent over 20 years designing sensory spaces and working collaboratively with schools, businesses and public venues to get this right. The Nook Stop sensory space at Frenchgate Doncaster is a live, working reference point for what's achievable in a busy retail environment. For specification detail on self-contained options that suit leased units, offices and schools, our self-contained sensory pods range is a useful starting point.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need to book the Nook Stop sensory space at Frenchgate?

Nook Stop is designed as an easy-access city centre sensory space for shoppers who need it, with short visits so it stays available to others throughout the day. Opening hours and any sign-in or access process are managed directly by Frenchgate Doncaster, so it's worth checking current arrangements with the centre before you visit.

Who can use a city centre sensory space?

Anyone experiencing sensory overwhelm can use it. Autistic people and those with sensory processing differences, ADHD, dementia, anxiety or migraine tend to benefit most, but no diagnosis or proof is required. Parents and carers can accompany users. The space is intended as a universal calm-down facility rather than a clinical or medical room.

What is the difference between a sensory room and a sensory pod?

A sensory room is a fitted space built into an existing building, usually requiring construction work. A sensory pod is a self-contained, acoustically treated unit that can be placed inside an existing area and relocated later, which makes it well suited to leased retail units, offices and schools where permanent alterations aren't practical.

How does a sensory space help someone regulate?

It removes overwhelming input first, such as noise, glare, crowds and unpredictability, allowing the nervous system to settle. Optional calming features like soft lighting, tactile items and gentle sound can then help. Crucially, the user controls what they experience and when they leave, which is what makes the space feel safe and predictable rather than another environment imposed on them.

Can shopping centres install a sensory space without major building work?

Yes. A pre-manufactured sensory pod can be installed within an existing concourse, unit or back-of-house area with minimal disruption, connected to a standard power supply. This makes sensory provision achievable for centres with leasehold constraints, listed structures or limited capital budgets.

Sensory Nook vs Sensory Room: Which Sensory Space for Schools Is Right for You?

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 13:34:38 GMT

Sensory Nook vs Sensory Room: Which Sensory Space for Schools Is Right for You?

With the new SEND Government White Paper on the horizon, every school is being asked to rethink how they support pupils with sensory processing needs, autism, ADHD and anxiety. And let’s be honest, the pressure is real. Expectations are rising, budgets are tight, and space is already stretched to its limits.

But here’s the good news: You don’t need a spare room or a huge capital project to meet the new SEND standards. You just need the right tools, and the right partner.

That’s where AmbiSpace comes in.

The Reality Schools Are Facing

The government SEND White Paper is pushing for:

Earlier intervention
More consistent SEND provision
Better access to regulation spaces
Stronger inclusion within mainstream classrooms

And while a full sensory room is incredible, it’s simply not realistic for many schools. Space, staffing, installation time, it all adds up.

A sensory nook pod, however, fits the world schools are actually working in.

Why Sensory Nook Pods Make Sense Right Now

A sensory nook gives pupils a quiet, semi‑enclosed space to self‑regulate without leaving the classroom . It’s fast, accessible, and doesn’t require supervision, exactly the kind of practical solution the SEND reforms are pushing for.

Compact (2–4m²)
Affordable
Installed in a single day
Freestanding and relocatable
Designed for quick, independent regulation

In other words: It helps you meet the new SEND expectations without needing a spare room or a capital bid.

Sensory Rooms Still Matter, But They’re Not the Only Answer

Sensory rooms offer immersive, therapist‑led experiences. They’re brilliant for SEN schools and complex needs, but they’re not built for spontaneous, in‑the‑moment regulation.

Most mainstream schools need something pupils can access right now, not next Tuesday at 11:15.

That’s why so many schools are choosing both:

Nook pods for everyday regulation
Sensory rooms for structured sessions

It’s a balanced, futureproof approach that aligns perfectly with the White Paper’s direction.

Why AmbiSpace Is the Partner Schools Trust

With over 20 years designing sensory environments, AmbiSpace understands the realities schools face, tight budgets, limited space, and rising SEND needs.

We help schools:

Assess their space and pupil needs
Choose between a sensory nook pod, sensory room, or both
Install solutions with minimal disruption
Prepare confidently for the upcoming SEND reforms

If you’re looking ahead to the White Paper and wondering how to get ready, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Final Thought

The SEND reforms aren’t just about compliance, they’re about giving every pupil the chance to regulate, reset and thrive. A sensory nook pod is one of the simplest, most effective ways to make that happen inside the spaces you already have.

If your school is preparing for the new SEND standards, now is the time to explore what AmbiSpace can do for you.

�� Ready to Explore Your Options?

01724712378

Book a consultation with AmbiSpace to discuss your space, budget and pupil needs, or explore the full range of sensory pods to compare styles and features .

Contact | AmbiSpace

Students Celebrate Opening of New Sensory Nooks at Yorkshire Rose College

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 11:41:36 GMT

Students Celebrate Opening of New Sensory Nooks at Yorkshire Rose College Doncaster

Yorkshire Rose College celebrated a major milestone last week with the grand opening of its new AmbiSpace sensory nooks, a project created in collaboration with the Student Voice Team and college staff. Installed at the start of the week and officially opened on Thursday, the timing allowed the graduating class to see the results of months of planning and offered a glimpse of what incoming students will benefit from in September.

The opening was led by Student Voice leaders Keiran and Crystal, alongside Michael Ibbotson, Admissions and Student Experience Director. Together, they introduced the transformed social space: a warm, welcoming area redesigned to support connection, comfort, and sensory regulation.

At the heart of the transformation are two AmbiSpace sensory nooks, designed to help students socialise in a calmer, more predictable environment. The nooks provide sound isolation, allowing students to process conversations more easily, a crucial benefit for many neurodivergent learners. Their soft lighting and comfortable seating help students stay regulated between lessons, offering a peaceful alternative to busy communal areas.

The college further enhanced the space with new seating zones and bean bags, creating a flexible environment where students can relax, chat, and decompress throughout the day.

Feedback from students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive. Crystal shared how the nooks will give students “a place to relax and chat in between their lessons,” highlighting the importance of having dedicated regulation spaces in education settings. Students Liberty and Lucy described the nooks as “so amazing,” adding that they wished they’d had them sooner. The installation also included a gift of two Zensory weighted blankets, which Keiran and Crystal praised for their modular design and textured sections, perfect for additional sensory support.

Sensory nooks play a vital role in creating inclusive environments. They offer regulation support, reduce overwhelm, and help students feel grounded during busy college days. When schools and colleges invest in sensory‑friendly spaces, they invest in wellbeing, accessibility, and the success of every learner.

AmbiSpace is proud to support the Carr Fenton Foundation and Yorkshire Rose College in their commitment to creating environments where all students feel safe, supported, and included.

#AmbiSpace #SensoryNook #InclusiveEducation #YorkshireRoseCollege #Neurodiversity #SENDSupport #StudentVoice #AccessibilityMatters #SensorySpaces #StudentWellbeing #InclusionMatters #DoncasterBusiness

A New Sensory Space for Melksham House School

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 11:53:31 GMT

A New Sensory Space for Melksham House School

We’re delighted to share that Melksham House School in Wiltshire now has an AmbiSpace sensory igloo , giving students a calm, comfortable place to regulate, reset, and enjoy sensory activities throughout the school day.

Harriett Evans, Office Manager , shared how quickly the igloo has made an impact: “The sensory igloo has been a fantastic addition for our students. We've only had it for a short time, but it has quickly become a favourite. The students love having a calm, comfortable space where they can relax, regulate their emotions, and enjoy sensory activities. It has already made a positive impact, and we are delighted with it.”

Students were just as enthusiastic: “I like the sensory dome, or as I call it, the wonder dome. Ohhh I like it.” and “This is so cool, why haven’t we always had this?”

�� Why Sensory Igloos Make a Difference

Regulation support : A predictable, calming space helps students manage overwhelm and sensory overload.
Emotional wellbeing : Quiet environments reduce anxiety and support self‑soothing.
Inclusive design : Sensory spaces benefit neurodivergent, Deaf, anxious, and overwhelmed learners alike.

We’re proud to support Melksham House School in creating an environment where every student feels safe, supported, and included.

#AmbiSpace #SensoryIgloo #MelkshamHouseSchool #InclusiveEducation #Neurodiversity #SENDSupport #DeafCommunity #AccessibilityMatters #SensorySpaces #StudentWellbeing #InclusionMatters #Wiltshire

Sensory Igloo Brings Calm to Yorkshire Rose College Prom

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:06:24 GMT

Sensory Igloo Yorkshire Rose College Doncaster

On Tuesday afternoon, AmbiSpace had the privilege of supporting the Carr Fenton Yorkshire Rose College Prom, a celebration honouring around 70 graduating students from a college dedicated to empowering Deaf and SEND learners aged 16–25. It was a joyful, community‑driven event filled with pride, connection, and well‑deserved celebration.

The atmosphere was incredible. Students enjoyed freshly made pizzas from WOOD FIRED Pizza Co and ice creams from T's Whippy Ice Cream Treats, adding to the excitement of the day. Students got to enjoy a variety of activities; dancing, music, karaoke, sports, arts and crafts, not to mention food and soft drinks.

Throughout the afternoon, students and staff were eager to explore the sensory space. The igloo offered a calm, predictable environment, a place to decompress, regulate, and take a breather from the busy prom setting. For many neurodivergent and Deaf students, having access to a dedicated regulation space can make events more inclusive, comfortable, and enjoyable.

Feedback from the college was overwhelmingly positive. Amy Turner, Contracts & Procurement Manager, and Michael Ibbotson, Admissions & Student Experience Director, described the igloo as “a wonderful experience” and immediately recognised the benefits it could bring to future events. Amy Plant, Senior Pastoral Support Team Member, shared how relaxing the space felt for students who needed a moment of calm. Students Lucie and Alfie said they wished they could use the sensory igloo every day. Teacher Sanjay, his interpreter Raja, and students Plamen and Ryan all agreed it was a truly inclusive addition to the prom.

A sensory igloo provides a vital space for regulation, offering quiet, comfort, and predictability during high‑energy events. This kind of support helps ensure that every student can participate fully, confidently, and safely. Inclusion isn’t just about being present, it’s about having what you need to thrive.

We’re honoured to have been part of such a meaningful celebration and proud to support Yorkshire Rose College in creating an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and included.

#SensorySpace #SensoryIgloo #InclusiveEducation #Neurodiversity #Ambispace #SENDSupport #DeafCommunity #YorkshireRoseCollege #AccessibilityMatters #Community #StudentWellbeing #InclusionMatters #DoncasterBusiness

New Sensory Igloo Arrives at Ambispace

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 09:50:04 GMT

New Sensory Arrives Ready for Yorkshire Rose College Event in Doncaster

AmbiSpace is proud to introduce our new, fully accessible sensory igloo, redesigned from the ground up to support even more neurodivergent individuals and the environments that care for them.

This updated model features true wheelchair access, removing the need to lift or adjust the igloo for entry. It’s also larger and more spacious, giving users more room to regulate, decompress, and feel safe. For many autistic and neurodivergent people, having a space that feels predictable, calm, and physically accessible can make all the difference.

Top 3 Reasons to Use a Sensory Igloo

Instant regulation: A controlled, calming environment helps reduce sensory overload quickly and safely.

Portable inclusion: Sensory support can travel to events, schools, workplaces, and community spaces to be used inside or outside.

Universal design: A space that supports neurodivergent people also benefits anxious, overwhelmed, or stressed individuals.

Next week, we’re excited to support White Rose College with our new sensory igloo, continuing our mission to make regulation spaces more accessible and more inclusive.

#AmbiSpace #SensoryIgloo #InclusiveDesign #Neurodiversity #SENSupport #AccessibilityMatters #SensorySpaces #AutismAcceptance #RegulationTools #WhiteRoseCollege #DoncasterBusiness #InclusiveEducation #DesignForAll

Announcing the 2026 PSEC Champions

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:16:32 GMT

Burton Road Primary School Wins 2026 PSEC!

We are thrilled to share that the winning school for the 2026 Primary School Enterprise Challenge Finals is Burton Road Primary School from Barnsley, South Yorkshire.

Massive congratulations to the Cozy Corner team, both students and staff, who's thoughtful, and beautifully themed four‑season sensory room design captured the judges’ attention. Their concept balanced creativity with practicality, resulting in a space that feels comforting, inclusive and deeply considered. As the grand prize winners, Burton Road will receive a bespoke sensory room designed and built by AmbiSpace, bringing their vision to life within their school.

Why Sensory Rooms Matter

Sensory rooms provide safe, calming environments that support students with:

Emotional regulation
Reducing overwhelm
Improving focus and readiness to learn
Accessing one‑to‑one support
Building confidence in busy school settings

They are especially valuable for neurodivergent students, offering a space where sensory input can be controlled, comfort can be found, and wellbeing can flourish.

Yesterday’s finals were a powerful reminder of what young people can achieve when they are encouraged, supported and given the space to dream big. We couldn’t be prouder of every school that took part and look forward to the next years PSEC Finals.

#PSEC2026 #PrimarySchoolEnterpriseChallenge #AmbiSpace #SensoryRooms #InclusionMatters #Neurodiversity #StudentCreativity #CastDoncaster #EducationSupport #WellbeingInSchools #Barnsley #BurtonRoadPrimarySchool #CozyCorner #CommunityImpact #Doncaster #DoncasterBusiness #Yorkshire

New Sensory Nook Installed Willow Primary School

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 10:49:30 GMT

Students and Staff 'Over the Moon' with New Sensory Nook Installed at Willow Primary School

Willow Primary School celebrated a truly special milestone last week as they proudly unveil their brand‑new Sensory Nook, the grand prize they earned by winning last year’s Primary School Enterprise Challenge.

Led by the brilliant teacher Laura Pownall, the students poured creativity, teamwork and heart into their winning concept. Seeing their original design brought to life was an emotional moment for everyone involved. Laura shared how “over the moon” the children were when the AmbiSpace team arrived, and how proud she felt showing us the students’ original Sensory Nook concept from the competition.

During our visit, Laura also told us she feels ready for this year’s PSEC finals, and she’s hoping Willow can go for back‑to‑back victories. With this year’s prize being a full sensory room, designed and built by AmbiSpace, the excitement is already building.

Why the Sensory Nook Matters

The Sensory Nook is more than a calming space, it’s a lifeline for students with sensory needs, especially those within the neurodivergent community.

Benefits include:

A quiet, enclosed environment to regulate emotions
Reduced sensory overwhelm in busy school settings
A safe space for one‑to‑one support
A comfortable area to focus, reset or chat with a friend

One of the biggest advantages is its portability. The Sensory Nook can be moved between classrooms or departments, giving schools the flexibility to support students wherever the need is greatest.

Seeing Willow Primary School embrace their Sensory Nook with such gratitude and enthusiasm is exactly why AmbiSpace Ltd continues to champion inclusive, sensory‑friendly environments.

We’re incredibly proud and were sure Davina Sumner and Exceed Learning Partnership are also proud of Laura, her students, and everything they achieved, and we can’t wait to see what they bring to this year’s finals.

#AmbiSpace #WillowPrimary #SensoryNook #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #SEND #EducationSupport #SENDWhitePaper #PrimarySchoolEnterpriseChallenge #WellbeingInSchools #SensorySpaces #Doncaster #CommunityImpact #DoncasterBusiness #Yorkshire

Ambispace Abbie Introduces Executive Sensory Nook

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:03:41 GMT

Abbie Introduces Ambispace Executive Sensory Nook at the Doncaster, Yorkshire showroom.

Abbie is one of those rare people whose authenticity, lived experience, and compassion make an immediate impact, and at AmbiSpace, she has become a powerful voice for why sensory‑inclusive environments matter.

As someone with her own sensory needs, Abbie brings a depth of understanding that no brochure or technical spec could ever match. When she talks about the Sensory Nooks, she doesn’t just describe a product, she shares what it feels like to finally have a space where your nervous system can breathe. Her passion helps people understand the difference a quiet, enclosed, calming environment can make for those in the neurodivergent community.

Abbie regularly supports the marketing team, explaining how a Sensory Nook offers a safe retreat in busy educational or public settings. Whether someone needs a moment to regulate, a quiet corner to study, a space for one‑to‑one support, or simply somewhere to chat with a friend without sensory overwhelm, Abbie can bring these scenarios to life with clarity and warmth.

Her enthusiasm is contagious. People connect with her because she speaks from experience, and that experience helps others feel seen, understood, and supported. It’s one thing to talk about inclusion; it’s another to embody it. Abbie does exactly that.

Thanks to the work with do at Ambispace, more people are discovering how sensory spaces can transform everyday environments into places where everyone can thrive.

We’re incredibly proud to have Abbie as part of the AmbiSpace team, championing accessibility, empowerment, and the belief that everyone deserves a space where they feel safe and regulated.

#Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #SensorySupport #AmbiSpace #SensoryNook #AccessibilityForAll #NeurodivergentCommunity #LivedExperience #InclusiveDesign #WellbeingSpaces #EducationSupport #PublicSpaces #QuietSpaces #Sensory #CommunityInclusion #DoncasterBusiness #Doncaster #Yorkshire #UK

Abbie Introduces Ambispace Executive Sensory Nook at the Doncaster, Yorkshire showroom.

Willow Primary School Sensory Nook Prize Install

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 08:50:49 GMT

Kevin Wheatley takes break after sensory nook installation at Willow Primary School in Doncaster

What a brilliant moment for AmbiSpace, and a huge shout‑out to Willow, Kevin, Wheatley, Luke and Richard, who went above and beyond to install the Sensory Nook that Willow Primary School in Doncaster, Yorkshire, proudly won in last year’s Primary School Enterprise Challenge (PSEC) Finals.

Their teamwork, care and dedication turned the installation into something truly special. Every member of the crew brought their best, ensuring the school received a calming, high‑quality space that will support students for years to come. We really do have an amazing team at AmbiSpace, and this project is another reminder of the passion they bring to every school we work with.

Why Do Sensory Nooks Matter?

Our Sensory Nooks provide a safe, enclosed and calming environment for individuals with sensory needs, especially those within the neurodivergent community.

They help students:

Regulate during moments of overwhelm
Focus in a quiet, distraction‑reduced space
Access one‑to‑one support without sensory overload
Connect with a friend in a calm, comfortable environment

For many children, having a space like this can be the difference between shutting down and feeling safe enough to re‑engage.

This Year’s PSEC Prize

We’re excited to share that the prize for this year’s PSEC Finals is even bigger, a full sensory room designed and built by AmbiSpace. We can’t wait to see which school will take home this life‑changing space.

Celebrating our team, celebrating inclusion, and celebrating the schools who work so hard to support their students. This is what AmbiSpace is all about.

#AmbiSpace #SensoryNook #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #SEND #EducationSupport #PrimarySchoolEnterpriseChallenge #TeamWork #CommunityImpact #SensorySpaces #Doncaster #WellbeingInSchools

Night at the Museum Brings Learning to Life at Doncaster’s DANUM Gallery, Library and Museum

Thu, 21 May 2026 11:06:44 GMT

Night at the Museum Brings Learning to Life at Doncaster’s DANUM Gallery, Library and Museum

The Doncaster Council Remake Learning opening event, Night at the Museum, transformed the DANUM Gallery, Library and Museum into a vibrant hub of creativity, curiosity, and hands‑on learning. The evening was officially opened by Sean Fearn, Learning Manager for Doncaster Council, who welcomed families to a programme designed to inspire children through interactive education and community collaboration.

One of the standout features of the event was the partnership between Doncaster Library and the National Literacy Trust, who worked together to provide free books, literacy activities, and live readings for children. Catherine Timbers, Early Years Project Manager for the National Literacy Trust, and Tracy Callision, Learning Officer at Doncaster Library, were instrumental in ensuring the evening ran smoothly. Their enthusiasm and commitment to children’s literacy were evident throughout the event.

Elsewhere in the museum, Carrick Holdsworth, Learning Officer at DGLAM, introduced children to the world of 3D printing. Demonstrating how rapidly the technology is advancing, he explained the value of teaching young people how it works and the important IT and problem‑solving skills it can develop. Visitors like Hannah and her daughter Dahlia said they attended because they wanted to explore learning experiences beyond the classroom.

AmbiSpace also played a key role in supporting the event, providing their popular sensory igloo along with experienced staff to answer questions and offer guidance. Families responded warmly to the space. Charlotte and her children described the igloo as “the perfect environment to feel more comfortable if you are overwhelmed.” Ella Green and her son Tommy, who is autistic, said they enjoyed the experience and wished more was being done to support neurodivergent people. Zara, Ryley, and their family called the igloo “absolutely great,” while Seven Studios The Don praised the clear benefits it brought to the event.

The evening showcased the power of community collaboration, with organisations, educators, and local businesses coming together to offer children a fresh, engaging approach to learning. The atmosphere and response seemed really positive, and you can see that a lot of planning and work was put into the event by Doncaster Council and their partners.

#NightAtTheMuseum #Doncaster #DGLAM #RemakeLearning #AmbiSpace #SensoryInclusion #CommunityLearning #NationalLiteracyTrust #DoncasterLibrary #EducationMatters #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #DoncasterCommunity

CH Middleton Ltd X Ambispace

Mon, 18 May 2026 10:22:25 GMT

Middleton Skips helps Ambispace with Balloons for their 10th Anniversary Event

Ambispace would like to say a huge thank you to CH MIDDLETON LTD and Claire Gascoigne, Office Accounts Manager at Middleton Skips, for kindly donating both their time and the beautiful on brand balloon decorations for our 10th Anniversary celebration. Claire helped us create an incredible balloon arch at the entrance to AmbiSpace, along with stunning helium balloon displays throughout our showroom. We hope you enjoy the cakes and cookies.

The decorations transformed the space and added a real sense of celebration to this milestone event, adding a perfect welcome for our guests, partners, and supporters.

This gesture is a reminder of how important it is for local organisations to support one another. Community collaboration is at the heart of Doncaster, and we’re proud to work alongside businesses who share our commitment to helping others and uplifting the wider community.

If you’d like to explore more about our work, feel free to reach out and come visit us. We know you will be inspired by AmbiSpace, our sensory support, and how we empower neurodivergent communities in Doncaster, Yorkshire, and beyond.

#AmbiSpace #DoncasterBusiness #CHMiddleton #MiddletonSkips #CommunitySupport #10YearAnniversary #TeamDoncaster #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #Celebration #LocalBusinesses #SupportLocal

Ambispace SEND Government Whitepaper Support

Wed, 13 May 2026 11:11:02 GMT

SEND Government White Paper Support

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Ambispace 10th Anniversary

Wed, 13 May 2026 09:47:18 GMT

Ambispace Celebrates 10th Anniversary!

What an incredible milestone, AmbiSpace officially turns 10, and we were thrilled to celebrate alongside Kevin Wheatley, our amazing AmbiSpace team, and fantastic local Doncaster businesses including Autism Plus, Doncaster Chamber, Dolphin ICT, Treo Recruitment, Yorkshire Rose College, Harrison College, Intec Office Supplies, Aspire to be, Wayne Sables, Clean N Bright, Outwood Academy, Exceed, Amy’s House, Mental Health Football Club and many more who came to show their support.

It meant so much to see so many people join us and recognise the work we do to support and empower the neurodivergent community through sensory‑inclusive design, advocacy, and innovation. Your presence made the celebration even more meaningful.

A special thank you goes to Abbie, who even came in on her day off to celebrate with us, a true reflection of the passion and dedication that drives AmbiSpace forward.

Here’s to the next decade of impact, inclusion, and creating environments where every neurodivergent person can thrive and achieve.

#AmbiSpace #10Years #AnniversaryCelebration #DoncasterBusiness #TeamAmbiSpace #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #SensorySpaces #CommunitySupport #EmpoweringNeurodiversity #DoncasterIsGreat #YorkshireBusinesses #SEND #Accessibility

⚽ Creating Inclusive Sensory Matchday Experiences at Doncaster Rovers

Tue, 05 May 2026 13:36:06 GMT

⚽ Ambispace Creating Inclusive Sensory Matchday Experiences at Doncaster Rovers

Doncaster Rovers and the Eco‑Power Stadium are doing incredible work to support neurodivergent fans, ensuring everyone can enjoy matchdays in a safe, welcoming environment. Thanks to their amazing staff and the support of the AmbiSpace Sensory Nook and Zensory blankets kindly provided by Steven from Zensory, visitors now have access to calming tools that help them regulate during overwhelming moments.

Tomorrow, Friday 10th April, Doncaster Rovers Football Club are hosting a Familiarisation Event designed specifically for people who may feel anxious about attending a live match. This session helps visitors become more comfortable with the stadium layout, facilities, and sensory‑friendly options available to them.

We were given a brilliant tour by the amazing Donny Dog and Suzanne Uttley, who showed us the Donny Dog’s Kennel area, the home of the Sensory Nook. This dedicated space offers a quiet retreat away from the noise, complete with games, activities, and the AmbiSpace Sensory Nook for anyone who needs time to regulate.

Doncaster Rovers also provide sensory packs for visitors who may benefit from additional support, ensuring every fan feels valued and included.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a live football match but had reservations, the staff at Doncaster Rovers will go above and beyond to support you and make your visit enjoyable.

This is what true inclusion in sport looks like.

#DoncasterRovers #EcoPowerStadium #AmbiSpace #SensoryNook #Zensory #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #AccessibleSport #FootballForAll #SensorySupport #SEND #CommunityInclusion #Doncaster #MatchdayExperience

Sensory Room - Stanton Bridge Primary - Ambispace Doncaster

Tue, 05 May 2026 13:06:24 GMT

New Sensory Space Completed at Stanton Bridge Primary!

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Ambispace 10th Anniversary Open Day

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:42:48 GMT

AmbiSpace 10th Anniversary Open Day – Join Us!

�� AmbiSpace 10th Anniversary Open Day – Join Us!

We’re excited to celebrate a decade of excellence at AmbiSpace! Join us on the 12th of May 2026, from 9am to 12pm, for our 10th Anniversary Open Day celebration.

Come and meet the team, explore what we do, and see firsthand how our passion for supporting the neurodiverse community sits at the heart of everything we create, from Sensory Rooms to Nook Pods and inclusive environments across the UK and beyond.

For ten years, AmbiSpace has championed the belief that when we support neurodivergent individuals with understanding, compassion, and the right tools, we unlock potential that benefits everyone. When organisations, educators, families, and communities work together, we can create a world where neurodivergent people can thrive, contribute, and feel truly valued.

You can RSVP to the event by sending us an email at: events@ambispace.co.uk

You can also register through our LinkedIn event: LinkedIn Event

Here’s to celebrating the past decade and to building an even more inclusive future together.

#AmbiSpace #10Years #AnniversaryEvent #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #SensorySpaces #NeurodivergentSupport #CommunityEvent #OpenDay #Accessibility #SEND #InclusiveDesign #Neurodiversity #AutismPlus #Ambispace #Inclusion #SensoryNooks #ambifibre #fiberoptics #fibreopticlighting #Doncaster #England

#DoncasterBusiness #DoncasterIsGreat #TeamDoncaster #Accessibility #2026 #SenoryIgloo #sensorylighting #Inspirational #Neurodiversityawareness #Yorkshire

No Space? No Problem! How Sensory Nooks Transform Small Areas into Inclusive Spaces

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:40:17 GMT

Sensory rooms are becoming essential facilities within businesses, schools, and all kinds of everyday places. But what happens when you don’t have space for a full sensory room? A Sensory Nook is the answer. Designed specifically as a compact sensory room alternative , it offers the same functional environment using a fraction of the space.

When we partnered with Nook Pod to create the Sensory Nook range, the goal was to create a cost-effective , space-saving sensory solution that fits seamlessly into areas where a full room simply isn’t possible. The result is a mobile solution that supports emotional regulation , sensory processing , and inclusion without requiring major refurbishment or building work.

Since then, we’ve installed them into classrooms, corridors, waiting rooms, offices, and many other places. Their compact footprint makes them ideal for locations that want a sensory-friendly space without sacrificing a whole room.

But, not only are they great for saving space, it makes sensory support more accessible. Instead of having to be removed from learning or social interaction, a Sensory Nook sits within the existing environment – ready to use whenever it is needed.

But you might be wondering what a Sensory Nook is...

They are mobile pods which comes in a variety of different models and sizes. They are sound reducing and covered in a soft padding inside. They include features like tactile fibre optic wall carpets, colour changing lighting to influence mood , interactive activity panels for positive distraction , and lots more.

Worried about privacy? A pull across privacy screen can be added to any Nook, closing the space off from view of others.

Can You Create a Sensory Space Without a Sensory Room?

Absolutely and that's the entire purpose of a Sensory Nook. Whether space is tight or you want a sensory resource that’s flexible, mobile, and durable, Sensory Nooks make support possible where a full sensory room just doesn’t fit.

They offer:

· Inclusion instead of exclusion or removal from class

· Flexible installation almost anywhere

· Lower cost compared to full sensory room builds

· A visible, easily accessed space for neurodivergent individuals

So, if you’re searching for a sensory room alternative , or you want to support neurodivergent children, young people or adults but don’t have a room spare, a Sensory Nook could be the perfect solution.

Find out more and view our range of sensory nooks at www.sensorynook.co.uk

How this Infants School Uses Their Sensory Room to Support Emotional Regulation Daily

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 14:20:28 GMT

“We Feel Very Lucky to Have This Room”: Riverhead Infants School’s Sensory Success Story

"We are extremely happy with the sensory room! Staff enjoyed sitting in there last night, and I stayed late to lock up and had a very calming hour to myself" - Emma Clarke, SENCO

This sensory room was designed specifically to support emotional regulation, and now it has become a vital part of student's day to day routine in school.

We spoke to Emma Clarke, the SENCO at Riverhead Infants' School 6 months on from the installation to find out how it has made a difference.

Emma explained that the sensory room is really benefitting the children, being clear in their vision to use it to support emotional regulation, rather than using it as a 'breakout room'. In other words, using the room proactively rather than reactively.

Having this resource timetabled in to some of the student's days means that their sensory needs are being met daily, rather than them becoming overwhelmed at school.

The students all enjoy different parts of the sensory room.

One child, for example, likes to organise all the fibre optic strands into various colours, to calm and organise.

Another stims and dances to the snow machine as he requires lots of movement.

Another simply needs time to talk and re-set with an adult each day (due to anxiety) so will put the music on and talk for a while.

The bubble tube has become a favourite overall, closely followed by the snowfall and rhapsody wall panels.

Does your school need a dedicated space for sensory regulation? Our dedicated team can help you create a space that reflects your vision.

Book a consultation with our design team to begin your journey.

Sensory Nook Brings Calm to One of the UK’s Busiest Train Stations

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 12:26:11 GMT

Bringing sensory to busy travel hubs

A Sensory Nook was installed in Manchester Piccadilly train station's Assisted Travel Lounge, offering passengers with sensory sensitivities a quiet space away from the bustling platforms.

In this busy transit hub, the Nook provides a peaceful and calming environment for those needing a respite.

The Sensory Nook pod is located near platform 1 and features soft-padding which helps soften outside sound as well as ambient lighting to create a soothing atmosphere.

With three enclosed walls, the pod offers a protected, cocoon-like environment for overwhelmed individuals to relax and regulate themselves in.

The Nook has been praised for promoting accessibility and improving the passenger experience.

Since the Sensory Nook at Manchester Piccadilly has been such a big hit, lots of other travel hubs across the UK are following suit, including Belfast Grand Central Station, who had their own bespoke Nook delivered earlier this year.

Ever wondered what its like to travel as a neurodivergent person who struggles in busy places? Watch our animated short video and discover how just a few moments in a Sensory Nook changed Guy's travel experience.

Sensory Nook on Broadway!

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 11:02:48 GMT

Creating a More Inclusive Broadway Experience with Sensory Nook

Live theatre can be a powerful, emotional experience, but for neurodivergent people, the noise, crowds, and bright lights can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why the Broadway musical "How to Dance in Ohio" made an important step toward accessibility by incorporating Sensory Nook pods both front of house and backstage.

The pods offered the production's actors and audience members quiet spaces to relax in, away from the loud intensity of the theatre. The Nooks accommodated sensory needs in the overwhelming environment.

The backstage Sensory Nook features subdued lighting and acoustics to provide performers with a quiet space to unwind between scenes away from the chaos of backstage.

In the theatre lobby, another Nook gives overwhelmed audience members a dimly lit escape from the clamour of the crowded hallways and theatre. The pods helped aid the participation of neurodiverse groups.

By integrating sensory-friendly spaces, How to Dance in Ohio took meaningful action to make Broadway more inclusive and welcoming for neurodivergent people both on stage and in the audience.

How Future Innovators Are Reimagining Sensory Spaces – 2025 Enterprise Challenge Recap

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:17:58 GMT

The Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2025 Finals

Recently, we once again celebrated young entrepreneurs from across South Yorkshire at the Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2025 Finals. After sponsoring the event last year, we were thrilled to get even more involved this time around—our MD Kevin Wheatley and Design Team Manager Brendon Markham both joined the judging panel to help decide the winners.

The Challenge

Working in teams, the task was to design a new inclusive Sensory Nook for their school based on four exciting themes: outer space, the jungle, the beach and underwater.

While working on the challenge and developing their ideas, the children built real-world skills such as:

Problem solving – using a costing sheet to stick to a budget

Creativity – designing the Sensory Nook plus a matching team logo

Leadership – sharing ideas and guiding the team

Presentation – pitching their ideas and design to the panel of judges

The Finals Event

The event was even bigger and better than last year! We brought along two of our Sensory Nooks and our portable Sensory Igloo for the children to explore, and there was lots more to do:

There were loads of fun activities throughout the day, including:

Nerf challenge and archery
A magician and a stilt walker
A blind football challenge with Olympic-style sound balls
A photobooth to capture fun memories
A surprise visit from Bluey!

The Winners

There were lots of awards given out for different categories, but the overall winners were t eam Mission Impossible from Willow Primary School with their incredible jungle themed design.

This team wowed the judging panel with their outstanding creativity, attention to detail, and teamwork.

The Prize

The winning team will soon see their creation brought to life with a life size version of their Sensory Nook design installed at their school! Seeing their creativity come to life will continue to inspire the young entrepreneurs through their school journey and beyond.

Until Next Year...

What a fantastic day! We're proud to support a challenge that encourages creativity, inclusivity, and innovation in young minds. We’re already looking forward to what next year’s teams will dream up!

Think your school could be the next enterprise champions? Get in touch with Paul Robson to secure your place!

paul@primaryschool-enterprise.co.uk

07568355592

Introducing the Nook Stop – Making Shopping Inclusive at Frenchgate

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 14:11:15 GMT

The Nook Stop is coming on 3rd April 2025!

Finding a calm, quiet space in a busy shopping centre can be a challenge, especially for neurodiverse individuals who experience sensory overload. That’s why in partnership with Autism Plus we’re excited to introduce the first Nook Stop at Frenchgate Shopping Centre officially opening on 3rd April , just in time for Autism Awareness month.

We’re working with Autism Plus to create this space for the community because we understand just how impactful something like this can be.

For people who find busy environments overwhelming, shopping centres can feel inaccessible , but Nook Stop can change that . By providing a calm sensory space , we’re helping more people feel comfortable, confident, and included in everyday activities that many take for granted.

This doesn’t just benefit individuals, it also makes shopping centres more accessible and welcoming . When people have a space to regulate their sensory needs, they’re able to stay longer and enjoy their visit without the stress of sensory overload. This means more visitors for retailers , opening up shopping to individuals and families who may have previously avoided it.

What is Nook Stop?

Nook Stop is a sensory-friendly space featuring six Sensory Nooks designed to help individuals of all ages self-regulate. The space is open to all who need to take a quiet break away from the crowds. The goal is to make the shopping experience more accessible by providing a supportive environment.

What you'll find at Nook Stop

Take a virtual tour of the space to explore before you visit!

Nook Stop features six Sensory Nooks , each offering a unique experience to support diverse sensory needs:

Support – a functional respite area to lower anxiety levels. This is a great space to talk with the professionals at Autism Plus.
Ultra-Violet – provides maximum proactive calming and stimulation for individuals with visual impairment.
Shelter – designed for wheelchair users for accessible & high-quality sensory support.
Interactive – provides cause & effect feedback for engagement and active distraction.
Interactive XXXL – a larger space to explore the interactive elements or relax.
Escape – a discreet, enclosed space that reduces excessive sensory input.

There will also be a quiet seating area and colour controllable lighting inside, creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

How to Book

To ensure everyone gets the time and space they need, Nook Stop is available by booking only.

Opening Days : Nook Stop will be open on Thursdays and Fridays.

You'll find the Nook Stop on the ground floor of the shopping centre, across from Boots Pharmacy.

Join us for the Grand Opening on 3rd April at 10am!

Find out more and book your session:

Celebrating Young Entrepreneurs: Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2024 Awards Ceremony

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 09:43:08 GMT

Last week Ambispace managing director Kevin Wheatley had the great pleasure of joining the judging panel as The Barnsley Metrodome buzzed with excitement as young minds gathered for the Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2024. This annual event provides a platform for primary school students to showcase their entrepreneurial skills and compete against each other to win trophies, and this year a very special prize for the school of the overall winner.

The Challenge

Working in teams, these budding entrepreneurs tackled a real-life business challenge to design a range of imaginative sensory spaces that would support SEND and wellbeing in their school. Through this experience, they honed essential skills such as:

Creativity: working as a team to produce innovative solutions.

Problem-Solving: Addressing practical business issues including costing their proposals.

Leadership: Guiding their teams toward success.

Presentation: Communicating their ideas effectively through use of storyboards and descriptive language in front of a Dragon’s Den style judging panel.

The Winners

Among the standout schools were:

Edlington Victoria Academy: Their creative approach earned them recognition.

Willow Primary School: Not only did they win two awards, but they also impressed with their teamwork.

Carr Lodge Academy: Crowned the overall winner, Carr Lodge demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit.

The Prize

Ambispace ltd have a passion for encouraging and enabling young people to raise their life aspirations and maximise their individual potential through education. It was a very proud moment when Kevin was invited by the event organiser Paul Robson to join the judging panel and add his specialist sensory knowledge to the selection of the exceptional winning entries. To show this appreciation and to encourage more schools and children to take part in future enterprise challenges, Carr Lodge Academy not only took the title and trophy of overall winners, but a wonderful new Sensory Nook that will be installed in their school by the Ambispace team for the start of the new academic year.

Interested in joining the winners in having your very own Sensory Nook? Check out the Sensory Nook website below.

Pentonville Prison Sensory Room: A Transformative Space for Neurodiverse Inmates

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Sat, 18 May 2024 13:24:21 GMT

In a ground-breaking initiative, Pentonville Prison has unveiled its new neurodiversity unit, complete with a state-of-the-art sensory room designed and installed by sensory specialists, AmbiSpace Ltd . This innovative rehabilitation room aims to enhance the well-being and self-regulation of inmates with neurodiverse conditions that in prison frequently leads to challenging behaviour and self harm.

The Neurodiversity Unit

Creating a Supportive Environment

The n eurodiversity unit is designed to cater specifically to the needs of neurodivergent inmates. Plain walls minimize visual clutter, while noise absorption panels ensure a calm atmosphere. Inmates can access earplugs to reduce sensory overload.

The Sensory Room

At the heart of the unit lies the sensory room, an intelligently converted cell providing a calming haven for inmates seeking support and solace. Here, inside a sensory calming oasis, they can explore tactile surfaces, soothing lighting, and positive interactive elements. The sensory room promotes emotional regulation, stress reduction, and self-reflection.

There were a number of challenges to overcome in the design of the sensory room. Firstly, it had to be secure and safe for adults who may be severely agitated and even violently destructive. It had to have a capacity for proactive and rapid calming with positive distractions and interactive engagement for self-regulation and exploration. It needed to be multi-sensory to cover a broad range of neurodiverse conditions and controllable to adapt to individual requirements. The space needed to be welcoming and comforting so it is seen as a positive intervention that can support therapy sessions. All these boxes had to be ticked and delivered strictly to budget.

Fortunately, AmbiSpace are leaders in bespoke sensory designs created to be effective in the real world where available spaces are less than ideal but filled with potential for a creative company with many years of experience.

Carrying out installation in a disciplined manner to a rigid timetable in such a secure environment needed meticulous planning too, which again required an accredited and skilled team effort.

Impact & Future Plans

Positive Feedback

Inmate Stephen, who has ADHD and Dyslexia, attests to the transformative power of the sensory room...

Stephen has spent two decades stuck in a cycle of in and out of prison. He describes it as a lifeline, helping him break free from the continuous cycle of reoffending.

The prison staff see it as a wonderful tool to support them in their roles as custodians and often carers. There is a reduction in violence, and self-harm amongst inmates leading to a reduction of staff absences through injury and stress.

"Put a sensory room in every single prison in the country"

- Neil Fraser, Custody Manager at Pentonville Prison.

Expanding the Model

Pentonville's suc cess serves as a model for other correctional facilities. The neurodiversity unit demonstrates the importance of creating inclusive spaces that prioritize mental health and rehabilitation to educate and break the cycle of reoffending.

Last month, AmbiSpace installed a similar calming sensory space in HMP High Down prison and have designs submitted for two more UK based prisons. The prison service and supporting NHS services are to be highly commended for such positive social actions.

Conclusion

The sensory room at Pentonville Prison represents a beacon of hope - a place where inmates can find respite, healing, and a chance for positive change. The BBC 10 o'clock news story gives a clear insight in to how effective sensory support for neurodiverse conditions can be not only for the neurodiverse individuals but the people working with them too.

Let us continue to advocate for such initiatives across the criminal justice system and let us increase the positive growth of sensory provisions in wider society to prevent the stresses building up in people who may then go on to become offenders simply because they cannot cope in the wider world without respite being available.

The AmbiSpace mission is to see more Sensory Spaces in Everyday Places for the benefit to all of society. By creating more available sensory rooms and Sensory Nooks in schools, libraries, entertainment venues, shopping centres and many other places most people see as readily accessible, we create an inclusive society that embraces the differences in how we function as individuals and contribute as a whole.

Feel free to share this blog post and spread awareness about the impact of sensory rooms in prisons! ��12

I hope you find this blog post informative and engaging! If you have any further questions or need additional details, feel free to ask.

This wonderfully positive story was featured on the BBC News at Ten on 16th May 2024. Take a look at the full story below.

Innovative Fibre Optic Star Wars Mat Helps Cody

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:41:55 GMT

With AmbiSpace’s new fibre optic manufacturing facility in place, we have been working hard over the last few months to create and innovate new fibre optic products to be utilised to help neurodiverse children.

This month, AmbiSpace supplied a fantastic Star Wars sensory fibre optic carpet to Cody Hepple’s son, Logan. Logan has several different neurodiverse issues that can cause sensory overload, the main one being hypersensitivity. Fibre optic products have been proven to have a naturally calming effect and provide visual stimulation for people who are neurodiverse and suffer from sensory overload.

Cody was thrilled with the new play mat for her son Logan and sent us a lovely comment.

“The sensory fibre optic carpet is a brilliant addition that my son loves, it's easy to clean and move around and safe to touch.

Logan has a multitude of problems, one being hypersensitivity. When he lays down on the rug it seems to have a calming effect on him, and he can really relax and enjoy the amazing colours while he listens to his favourite music.”

Contact us to find out how we can make your favourite themed carpet come alive with the skilful integration of twinkling fibre optics

Sensory For Mainstream Schools - Purpose

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:39:14 GMT

Having a clear purpose from the outset of what you want a sensory facility to do for you will help narrow down your search and avoid investing in something that doesn’t deliver as intended. Key points to decide upon are:

1. Is it to support a specific individual or for wider use?

Specific means it will be closely tailored to meet a narrow set of needs and behaviours. Wider use will require greater flexibility and adaptation within the space.

Specific

Tailored to the individual, focusing on the specific needs and behaviours of the user

Wider Use

Greater flexibility for multiple users and adaptation of the space

2. Is it a refuge area to manage crisis situations and meltdowns?

These areas need to be extra resilient and very safe when put under extremes of pressure. They should be actively calming and not simply padded rooms.

3. Is it for sensory calming or controlled stimulation?

Calming spaces may need room to lie down and relax, whilst stimulation may need interactive equipment and room to move about to release excess energy. Multisensory facilities meet a range of different needs, are more flexible in how you can use them and ensure you get maximum usage out of your investment.

4. Is it for educational purposes, to map into curriculum or support learning delivery?

Experiential learning is a powerful tool. As is being able to deliver your best performance supported by subtly supportive sensory add ins to an otherwise traditional classroom environment.
One to one work spaces do not need to isolate individuals but provide a protective bubble within a larger space.

Check back next week as we delve into the next article exploring the topic of “Place” when developing your own sensory space.

AmbiSpace Becomes UK Manufacturer of Specialist Fibre Optic Lighting Products

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:27:40 GMT

AmbiSpace Ltd is delighted to announce that they are expanding the company with the acquisition of machinery, equipment and materials following the closure of Flexion Optical Fibre ltd.

This exciting expansion ensures AmbiSpace continue to lead the way in the industry as Sensory Specialists with the capability for production and extrusion of fibre optic lighting products. AmbiSpace Ltd is now one of only two companies in the UK producing fibre optic lighting products and the only sensory specialist company with in-house fibre optic production capabilities.

Moving to a new unit near Scunthorpe in North Lincolnshire, AmbiSpace is thrilled to welcome three new members to the AmbiSpace team. Steve Lewis - Head of Fibre Optics, Cheryl Wrenn – Fibre Optics Technician Supervisor and Jenny Alexander – Senior Fibre Optics Technician. Formerly of Flexion Optical Fibre Ltd, they bring over 75 years of specialist experience, knowledge, and expertise in the field of fibre optics for sensory industrial, medical, and commercial product development, manufacture, and supply.

Steve Lewis said:

“We are looking forward to working with the AmbiSpace team and the exciting new challenges ahead as we help to make AmbiSpace the leading sensory company in the UK with new innovations and ideas to support people with special needs and neurodiversity in everyday places”

With this new facility, machinery, and expertise, AmbiSpace has already begun the production of bespoke fibre optic carpets at their new premises for supply to a commercial partner for use in the aviation industry.

Kevin Wheatley, Managing Director of AmbiSpace Ltd is confidently targeting the full extrusion and polishing lines will be up and running by January 2022 for full production of polymer and glass fibre optic lighting products.

“As a long standing client of Flexion we were immensely disappointed to hear of their plans to close the business earlier this year. It is an important product range for our sensory customers and not one easily replaced from elsewhere. We realised that other Flexion clients would be in the same boat, so we immediately began to look for a way to rescue the business and keep it going.

It was a challenging process, but a successful result delivers a giant step forward for AmbiSpace as we add UK manufacturer of a uniquely specialised product range to our portfolio of specialist services. Combining the exceptional skills of Steve, Cheryl and Jenny with our existing team of creative designers and engineers is going to turbocharge growth for the business and stimulate innovation in fibre optic lighting.”

AmbiSpace has a reputation for quality of service and collaboration with commercial clients and partners, with this exciting development they are looking forward to freshening up the fibre optics market and supplying innovative UK manufactured products to existing and new clients. If your business would like to learn more, purchase or develop products with AmbiSpace, please get in-touch via email to kevin@ambispace.co.uk .

Sensory For Mainstream Schools - A Quick Guide

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:22:02 GMT

So, you have been tasked with creating a proactive space within your school to support pupils with SEND and to help manage the mental health, social anxiety and wellbeing of pupils and students returning after lockdown.

You know of and may have seen sensory rooms and products being used in specialist schools but your expertise in working with SEND pupils does not really extend into the sensory area. A quick internet search pops up numerous suppliers and a plethora of dazzling products that look amazing, but how can you narrow it down to make sure you get the most out of your budget and provide the best support for your students?

Having worked with young people with special needs myself, and as a multi award winning designer of countless sensory rooms and products over the last 12 years I would like to share these focus points to help you in your quest.

Purpose

Having a clear purpose from the outset of what you want a sensory facility to do for you will help narrow down your search and avoid investing in something that doesn’t deliver as intended.

We will be exploring “Purpose” more in the next part of our guide.

Quality & Safety

Sensory facilities are frequently used by vulnerable people in society and that usage can often be quite robust. It is important therefore that the Sensory equipment, designs and installation are all of a high standard. We will be exploring “Quality & Safety” more in the sixth part of our guide.

Control

This is the most important factor in creating a successful sensory facility. There are two main elements to consider – Environmental and Interactive.

We will be exploring “Control” more in the fourth part of our guide.

Equipment

Each element of equipment within a sensory space should serve a purpose and offer something different to ensure you have optimum opportunity to meet individual needs and preferences. Whilst sensory equipment is deliberately bold and attractive it should be balanced to prevent sensory overload.

We will be exploring “Equipment” more in the fifth part of our guide.

Sensory Nook is a Certified Autism Resource

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:08:22 GMT

Sensory Nook Approved by IBCCES

What is a Certified Autism Resource?

IBCCES, an independent credentialing and certification board with a focus on cognitive disorders, is the accrediting body for the Certified Autism Resource (CAR) program, along with many other designations and certifications for professionals in the healthcare and education industries.

As a part of the CAR application process, a board of experts conducted a comprehensive board review to determine how Sensory Nook aligned with one or more of 6 areas of competency and, ultimately, how it meets the needs of individuals with autism.

The goal is to promote Certified Autism Resource partners to IBCCES network of therapists, educators, and parents to ensure they have the knowledge and access to products and services they need to improve the lives of individuals on the spectrum.

Sensory Nook met the criteria for Behaviour Competency as a compact self-contained plug and play sensory pod supporting people with Autism in challenging everyday public environments such as schools, leisure and retail parks and the workplace. It provides an escape or refuge that reduces sensory overload providing positive sensory distraction and a safe space to self-regulate and avoid crisis events.

Sensory Nook reduces excessive stimulation by lowering ambient noise levels in an otherwise open space. The internal foam padding and soft textures absorb and reduce background noise to manageable levels. The lilac colour of the upholstery is recognised as a calming colour for people on the Autistic spectrum.

The compact and sturdy structure provides an enclosing space that generates a sense of security reducing anxiety. The open front and peak roofline ensures the user can see exactly what they are heading in to and helps overcome resistance from someone approaching a crisis state. The Sensory Nook provides comforting, supportive personal space without isolating the occupants from what is going on in the wider environment. It eases the pressures that can lead to challenging behaviour.

There are a range of different configurations for Sensory Nook, all based around standard modular units that can easily be interchanged. This means they can be tailored to meet very specific personal needs.

Integrated sensory equipment provides a strong calming effect.

Fibre optic strands provide fidget distraction to divert negative focus and can be used as a weighting aid to reduce hyperactivity, excessive stimming and promote relaxation. The twinkling light effects are soothing.

Vibration in seat cushions promotes deeper seating, releasing posture tension and easing overtight muscles in lower back and legs. This can help promote higher levels of concentration when focusing on tasks and improved physical wellbeing.

Colour change lighting is quickly adjusted to provide stimulation or calming as required. The touch control panel has sliding scales for colour saturation hue and brightness and does not require a high degree of motor skills to operate. The angle of the LED panels effectively contains the light inside the Sensory Nook for a strong focused effect that does not impact upon others outside the Pod.

Specialised interactive sensory equipment in the form of wall panels and light tubes provides strong engagement and a powerful distraction away from a negative situation. The cause and effect feedback is empowering and promotes self-exploration and expression. These items readily switch between stimulating or calming to meet the individual need of each person using it. The wall panels can are supplied with a preloaded editable soundtrack of music or white noise to lower external sensory pressures further.

Sensory Nook brings individual choice and accessibility to individuals through a range of adaptable control options. Everything within the Sensory Nook can be turned on or off by the user. This gives them control over their environment and experience. Controls include large button switches, wireless remotes, built in pressure pads and tablet app. Any one or all of these options can be available in a single Sensory Nook for maximum inclusivity.

Sensory Nooks feature a mirrored wall panel. This permits the occupant to observe what is going on outside the Nook without having to look at it directly. This adds a sense of control and security. Inclusion without threat.

Scent is an option for Sensory Nook and can be used to stimulate memory or provide a specific sensory experience. It can be used to deliver a specific personally preferred scent for an individual to mask the multitude of external odours that can trigger adverse reactions. Delivery of scent is highly controllable to avoid negative responses.

The presence of Sensory Nook as a unit provides a reassurance for people with Autism that they can attend a public place knowing there is a safe space that will be accessible to them if they experience sensory overload. This reduces anxiety from the outset and promotes a much more positive experience not only for the Autistic person but their family and carers too.

Sensory Nook Supports the LA Raiders

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:58:57 GMT

Ford Motor Company Sponsors Sensory Nooks in LA Raiders New Stadium

The Las Vegas Raiders have partnered with Nook Wellness Pods to provide innovative support for fans with special needs who need a calming space to take a break from the excitement at Allegiant Stadium.

Inclusivity is a priority for the Raiders, and Allegiant Stadium is equipped to make the game-day experience unforgettable for all with the addition of two Ford Sensory Nooks.

The Ford Sensory Nooks provide mobile, acoustically quiet sensory pods to provide a haven of tranquillity and relaxation for neurodiverse people. The two Ford Sensory Nooks are located just inside the Ford North Entry Gate of the stadium and are equipped with a variety of functions to deliver soothing, calming effects.

These include vibrating seats to ease tension and reduce anxiety, a twinkling, fibre-optic carpeted rear wall to make the Ford Sensory Nooks feel emotionally secure, and colour control LED lighting panels which have a powerful subliminal effect on mood.

David O’Coimin, of Nook, comments : “To support such a world-famous brand as the Raiders in its pursuit of mental health inclusivity is a tremendous honour. Busy, noisy spaces can be overwhelming for many individuals, and our Sensory Nooks will ensure that all fans and their families are able to fully appreciate this incredible new stadium.”

“We are pleased to team up with Nook Wellness Pods to provide our guests at Allegiant Stadium an environment for those who need to take a break in a location that is calming and tranquil,” said Raiders President Marc Badain .

Immersive Classroom for Inclusive Learning

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:52:34 GMT

Immersive Learning Through Experience

An immersive classroom is totally different to a traditional classroom. It is not restricted by walls & windows but can recreate anywhere in time & space or the imagination of stimulated students.

An AmbiSpace immersive classroom uses high quality projection to create a strong visual wrap around. It then adds ambient sensory effects including dynamic lighting, wind, scent, smoke, sound & vibration to bring the imagery to life & turn it in to a shared virtual experience.

To this virtual reality we add full gesture & touch interactive systems giving greater personal control & flexibility to meet individual needs. Levels of engagement, stimulation, calming & sensory exploration are greatly enhanced.

An AmbiSpace immersive classroom is a cross curricula resource. It is supplied with ready made templates, content and apps ready to go for a broad range of subjects by key stage & including SEN specialist sensory support. It is especially well suited to providing a safe customisable space for students with social & emotional needs & high functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

The technology is totally intuitive to use. The room is controlled by tablet app, interactive touchscreen & physical gestures. There are automated activities and preset templates that require no prior knowledge or technical expertise to start using. You will be able to create activities from scratch in minutes as well as bringing your familiar existing teaching resources in to the immersive classroom to give them a whole new & fresh interactive twist.

AmbiSpace transformed a tired old classroom in to the most engaging of interactive spaces

The St Johns immersive classroom (featured here), contains a three wall and a floor interactive projection system operated through an intuitive tablet app and powered by Immersive Interactive Software . This system brings the world in reach of everyone & encourages active engagement & safe exploration with cause & effect responses.

Students can visit otherwise unreachable places, experience sensations their personal circumstances make challenging and practice real world scenarios in complete safety. By experiencing a virtual world they are given a positive focus for raising personal aspirations.

The St Johns immersive classroom was created by experienced award winning professionals to be an engaging accessible teaching & learning environment that will also support SEN sensory integration & community group activities. It is the most flexible, controllable & interactive system available today.

The room contains the following features:

Dynamic lighting automatically changes the colour of the room to match what is being projected on the walls
With the tablet app you can select any colour on the spectrum to transform the room. Colour control is a positive mood influencer for SEN
The room is saturated in rich colours from responsive high quality LED lighting. It can help reduce challenging behaviours
Precise colour control makes a room accessible to sensitive individuals. It is effectively inclusive for ASD & dyslexia
The AmbiSpace nebulising multi-scent system adds realistic smells to immersive scenes, enhances memory retention & supports sensory integration therapies by desensitising & rehearsing real world situations
Powerful centrifugal fans create controllable wind effects & add sensory stimulation
UV flood lights create wonderfully atmospheric night scenes, help calm agitated students & enhance colours for visual impairment
The raised floor contains a powerful vibration system. Ramped access with handrail & LED light strips ensures a safe accessible entrance.
AmbiSpace, colour change picture panels. Set different moods of a fixed ceiling mounted image by changing the colour of the LED back lighting. Turn a blue sky to stormy grey, fiery red or an unearthly colour of your choosing.
An app controlled smoke machine adds excitement to scenes & creates stunning party effects when used with astro dome light
The astro dome light adds visual effect to stories, provides visual tracking for sensory support & is a great feature at discos & parties
Induction loop built in to assist hearing impairment
A wall mounted 55" Clevertouch interactive touchscreen provides a one to one workstation that can be controlled through direct touch or by linking other devices such as mobiles, tablets or laptops to the screen. It is supplied with an extension suite of educational software tools & free access to the Cleverstore cloud based interactive app store. The apps in here cover a wide range of topics including sensory, as well as being mapped to Key Stages they are awarding body approved.

The room itself is finished with hard wearing easy clean projection walls, commercial grade cushion vinyl flooring & a black suspended ceiling. The vinyl covered foam seating & step rail are manufactured to play industry British & European standards to ensure durability & safety.

Funding Educationally Inclusive Projects

The school fund raising drive for this immersive room was strongly supported by Wooden Spoon who are great backers of educational projects that help young people reach their full potential in life.

Classroom designs are produced by an experienced award winning creator of sensory & immersive spaces. All installation works are carried out by AmbiSpace qualified professionals including removal of existing fittings. We will take care of CDM project management compliance for you.

Sensory Rooms - Essential Tools or White Elephant?

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:45:45 GMT

What Makes a Sensory Room Effective?

"Multi-sensory therapy is an activity which usually takes place in a dedicated room where patients experience a range of unpatterned visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile stimuli. These rooms are designed to create a feeling of comfort and safety, where the individual can relax, explore and enjoy the surroundings". (Baker et al, 1997).

Sensory rooms first appeared in the Netherlands in 1970 as a safe calming space in which neurologists could observe mental health patients while they explored their surroundings using their senses. From this start the idea of a relaxing space capable of delivering multi and specific sensory stimulus evolved and expanded beyond healthcare and in to special needs education.

This evolution over the next 30 years came from a very narrow base and although it spread quickly there was limited innovation of products and design as suppliers largely grew in number by existing companies splitting and replicating what had been done before. Sometimes they did this very well and sometimes not so well.

I personally have visited many sensory rooms up and down the country, usually as a result of them reaching the end of their productive life and in need of updating. I have seen very good examples and some that left me with a sense of despair. What I have gained from all the places I have visited is the insight that a well designed sensory room is an extremely valuable resource for the people who use them on a daily basis.

There are two key factors that decide if sensory room is an essential tool or white elephant:

1. Control

It would be easy to think control is simply about how a sensory room can be interacted with, big button remotes, tablet apps and simple switches. Whilst these are essential access points within a room there is a larger control factor that is often overlooked.

A few years ago, I was involved in a project at a specialist educational establishment were a young man with severe physical and mental disabilities was prone to going in to violent crisis 3 times a day for up to 20 minutes at a time. During these episodes he would self-harm, which meant 3 members of staff needed to hold him down on a foam mat to reduce the risk of injury. A modern multi-sensory room was designed and installed within the unit in to which he was taken at regular times throughout the day. The result was his crisis episodes reduced to one every eight days.

This was attributed by the staff to the ability to create a personalised environment around him that reduced his anxiety and frustration levels. In addition to this calming effect the staff observed that although he had been statemented as completely blind and totally deaf, he was tracking the moving lights and turning his head in the direction of sounds. This enabled them to modify his personal management program resulting in a further reduction in the incidences of challenging behaviour.

The key to this was that the sensory room created a safe, controlled and therefore predictable environment outside of the normal world, that could be adapted to the very specific requirements of the individual. This intervention at key times allowed him to relax. From this relaxed state and free from everyday interferences, different sensory inputs could be introduced in a controlled measurable manner that uncovered the young man’s previously obscured true abilities. His life was improved and so was that of the staff who cared for him. The sensory room was the difference that enabled this young man to stay in the educational establishment he was in.

2. Inclusive by Design

Traditional sensory rooms are often heavily stacked towards visual and low ability provision. This in large part evolved due to the low level nature of technology initially available to suppliers creating the early sensory favourites such as bubble tubes. Often it is the accidental result of picking individual products on their standalone merits without an overarching design in place. We tend to shop with our eyes and I personally have visited many sensory rooms where this is evident to the point of sensory overload.

For a sensory room to be an essential tool it needs to be inclusive by design. With the range of technology available today it is an entirely achievable goal to create a single space that will meet the needs of all from very low to high functioning disabilities. It works best when the project starts with a brief that says,

“We don’t need a sensory room, we need a controllable space that shuts out the immediate World and creates an alternative personalised one. We need an adaptable environment that will influence the mood of occupants on their individual personal terms. We need accessible sensory experiences available to everyone who enters”.

Then you will have an essential sensory room that creates multisensory experiences, supports personal wellbeing and delivers differentiated educational experiences.

Kevin Wheatley

AmbiSpace Ltd.

Kevin is an award winning sensory and immersive specialist who designs rooms and pods to deliver technology driven experiences for special needs and education. He has previously taught young people with SEN and successfully recovered from the debilitating condition M.E., an experience that strongly influences his work today.

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