Neurodivergent Learning Sanctuary in Cornwall

Aim

A neuro-inclusive learning sanctuary in Cornwall where children can thrive, belong and feel safe...

Neurodivergent Learning Sanctuary in Cornwall

A Support for Home Education - A place where children unfurl and parents can finally exhale.

Many neurodivergent children arrive at learning spaces carrying exhaustion, overwhelm and nervous systems shaped by being misunderstood.

So do their parents.

Some families have fought long battles for support.
Some have recently withdrawn their children from school after needs not being met.
Some never entered the system at all, because they knew it wouldn’t fit.

There is no single story here, only many seasons of arrival.

NILU exists to meet families exactly where they are.

What we’re creating

We are building a neurodivergent learning sanctuary in Cornwall. A calm, flexible, nature-based space for children who do not thrive in mainstream education settings.

This first space will offer:

• Time and space to learn at an individual pace
• Freedom to move, rest, stim and regulate
• Support for children with complex nervous systems, big emotions and higher support needs
• An environment designed to reduce sensory overload, not create it
• Inspired learning opportunities for home educated children

This is not a school.
It is not therapy.

It is a place of belonging first, where children are not rushed, assessed, or compared and where learning can grow safely from that foundation.

JOIN THE WHATSAPP GROUP https://chat.whatsapp.com/BBSjmfu82DV9xShWOYN7VJ 

This is already happening

✨ The geodesic dome has been located for purchase.
🚜 A digger has been hired and site preparation is beginning.

The land has been generously offered by Badgers Food Forest CIC, and we are now preparing the site for our first inclusive space.

At this stage we have the funds for the physical creation of the sanctuary.

What we’re raising funds for now

We are raising £3,300 to set up our geodesic dome as a warm, usable learning base.

Your support will help us to:

• Purchase the geodome and install it DONE
• Heat the space so it can be used year-round 
• Furnish it with calming, flexible seating and soft surfaces
• Create a warm, softly lit space that feels safe, human, and welcoming
• Purchase sensory and regulation equipment

We are also delighted to have already received our first grant from Sport England, which will fund additional activities for the children.

With your support, we can now create the base space where this work can truly begin.

Our approach

We know many parents arrive with tender nervous systems.

Because of this:

• There is no pressure to commit, perform or “fit in”
• Children are welcome exactly as they are, on the days they can come
• Connection and listening are allowed to emerge gently, over time

This is a space that honours difference, between children, between families and between seasons of life.

Why your support matters

By donating, you are not just funding a structure.

You are helping to build:

• A place where children are not managed or masked
• A place where parents don’t have to brace themselves
• A place where learning feels safe again

Your support helps us say to families:

You are not alone.
Your child is welcome here.

Our longer-term vision

Our long-term dream is to create a permanent community home for NILU a place of belonging with gardens, sensory learning spaces, and a welcoming building where:

• Children feel secure
• Parents find understanding and support
• Educators and facilitators can share their gifts in sustainable ways

Until we raise the funds for our forever home, we are choosing to begin with something achievable, immediate and grounded.

This first space allows us to start, to learn alongside families, respond to real needs and build carefully from lived experience. Evolving through co creation. 

Thank you

Whether you donate or share this page, thank you.

This sanctuary is being built carefully and with integrity. We are deeply grateful to have you alongside us.

💚 Learn more at www.nilu-cic.org

Neuro-Inclusive Learning Umbrella 

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made