Help us create a sensory garden

Aim

To create a safe space for the whole school community with a focus on sensory and neurodiversity to make learning inclusive for all

Our Aim:

The aim is to create a safe space to reflect, learn, play and relax for the children who have specific sensory/neurodiverse needs as well as improving mental wellbeing for all in school.

How will we do this?

St. Mary's Primary School in Askham Richard has a small unused space that would be ideal to transform into a sensory/therapy garden. The funds will allow Friends of St Mary's to repurpose this area by creating a safe space for everyone to enjoy, specifically those with additional special education needs and disability. 

Why we need your support

St. Mary’s aim to provide an environment where positive attitudes to learning and creativity are promoted and we would like to make this area accessible to the whole school including those with SEND (Special educational need and disability) or who need extra emotional support. Unfortunately, there is a mismatch of funding for children with SEND as there is no government budget for such projects. 

This will not only enable children with sensory and neurodiversity issues take time to reflect, learn and relax in a safe space. It will also provide a safe and confidential space to talk and work with children, parents/carers and staff in a calming environment. 

This area will enable children to access materials to improve their ability to emotionally self regulate with support by focusing on the sensory element not all children can access. The children currently have limited safe space that caters for their sensory needs. Increasing access to this area would enable them to express themselves, feel more connected and improve their mental wellbeing.

How will your donations be used?

Your donations will help us purchase items from the below list: 

• Sensory specific plants (strong scents, colours, feel, taste).
• Labour, planters/raised beds, soil/compost, gravel, weed membrane.
• Covered seating for adults and children.
• Outdoor chalk board
• Astro-turf
• Storage (for gardening tools).
• Children’s gardening kits for therapeutic play.
• Specialist sensory outdoor equipment (inc. water play feature, sand tray, sensory basket, wind chimes, hi-vis vests).
• Secure fencing/gate.

The  redeveloped space will be used and looked after by pupils, staff and parents to increase the sense of community and inclusivity.

This project successfully funded on 16th June 2021