New Lubbesthorpe Primary School's Connected Sensory Cabins
OWLS Academy Trust's sensory cabin project at New Lubbesthorpe Primary School in Leicester was designed to provide pupils with a calm, purposeful space to support their social and emotional needs and wellbeing.
Recognising that some pupils need a quieter, more sensory-responsive environment at particular points in the school day, the school wanted to create a dedicated space where pupils could access support, manage the school environment more successfully and feel ready to return to learning.
Funded through Section 106 contributions, the project involved two connected 17m² cabins, fitted with a sensory trolley and beanbags by our partners at Sensory Technology, as well as seating and other facilities to support pupils' needs.
We spoke to Peter Merry, CEO of OWLS Academy Trust, about the project and how the connected cabins are supporting pupils...
What led to the decision to create a dedicated sensory space at New Lubbesthorpe... & what did you want the space to provide for pupils?
"We recognised that some pupils needed a calm, supportive space away from the main school building, while still being safely within the school grounds. The connected cabins gave us a way to provide that space and respond more flexibly to pupils’ needs."
"We wanted the space to offer all our pupils - especially those with SEND, attachment difficulties, and Social and Emotional needs - a welcoming environment where they could feel settled, access support and be ready to engage with learning. It was important that time there helped pupils reconnect with school and return to lessons when they felt able."
What difference has having this space made for pupils & staff?
"The cabins have supported positive interactions with pupils and given staff an additional way to help pupils feel comfortable and take part in school life. Having a dedicated space away from the main building, but still on site, has helped staff offer support while keeping pupils connected to the school. We continue to listen to pupils and staff to understand how the provision is working and what may need to change."
How are pupils using the space, and what role do the sensory trolley, projector & beanbags play?
"Pupils use the cabins regularly, with staff considering what is appropriate for each pupil and supporting them to return to lessons gradually. The sensory trolley, projector and beanbags help make the space comfortable and adaptable. Staff can use them to create an environment that suits pupils’ needs at the time, rather than expecting every pupil to respond to the same set-up."
Is there anything else you’d like other schools to know about your experience?
"The cabins are an amazing resource, but their value comes from how they are used to support individual pupils. We have found it important to think carefully about which pupils may benefit, listen to their views and plan how they will reconnect with lessons. Other schools considering a similar space should take account of their pupils’ needs, their site and the staffing and ongoing costs involved."
A Positive Impact on Pupils
The school is continuing to gather pupils' views and staff observations, alongside information about attendance and participation, to evaluate the impact of the cabins. Positive pupil interactions are already being observed, and governors have agreed that the cabins are beneficial and are having a positive impact on pupils' learning. The school has also highlighted the importance of supporting pupils' gradual return to lessons, listening to their views and making sure the space is used in a way that responds to their individual needs.
If you'd like to speak to one of our education building experts about a similar project, be sure to get in touch. You can also find out more about our sensory rooms and sensory cabins in partnership with Sensory Technology here.
Start The Journey Book a Video Meeting or Phonecall
Simply click below to get started on your initial quote with Cabins for Schools. Our team are happy to advise and help match the right school building to you.
Download Your Free Copy Of Our Pricing Guide
If your school needs extra space and you are researching education building options, see some of the amazing outdoor learning and support spaces we have created for School and Education and get prices to help you plan for your project.
See Our Educational Buildings Find Other Schools
Find other schools, nurseries and educational institutions across the UK who have already upgraded their space with a Cabins for Schools building.
Have a Sensory Room Demo Visit our Showroom
See what’s possible at our Cabins for Schools showroom in Nottingham, featuring a fully-equipped sensory room and a flexible teaching and learning area designed to promote inclusion, improve access to support, and enhance wellbeing. Visits are by appointment.