Sensory Programmes
Many of our students experience the world differently through their senses. This can affect how they feel, how calm they are, and how ready they are to learn. At our school, we understand how important sensory regulation is in helping students feel safe, settled, and able to take part in their day.
Our Occupational Therapy (OT) team supports students with sensory needs. Some of our therapists have extra training in Sensory Integration, and all of them have strong knowledge about how the senses work and how this can affect learning, behaviour, and daily activities.
If a student’s sensory needs make it harder for them to take part in school activities or learning, the OT team may create a sensory programme (sometimes called a sensory diet). This is a personalised plan of sensory activities that helps the student stay calm, alert, and ready to learn during the day. Every plan is made to meet the individual needs of the student.
Sometimes, the OT team may also suggest sensory equipment to help a student feel more comfortable and regulated. This could include items such as weighted or “bear hug” vests, ear defenders, or chew tools. Our school also has a sensory room with specialist equipment, which some students use as part of their individual sensory programme.
To make sure sensory strategies are used regularly and safely, school staff are trained by the OT team. Staff may also support students to take part in sensory circuits, which are short, structured physical activities designed to help with focus, attention, and alertness. These activities are led by trained staff and checked regularly by the OT team to make sure they are right for each student.
We believe it is very important that staff understand sensory needs. Through regular training and ongoing support from the OT team, staff learn how to recognise sensory difficulties and how to respond in a helpful way. This shared understanding helps create a calm, supportive environment where students feel understood, safe, and able to do their best.