Imagine an amazing environment where, through a combination and variation of special sound and visual effects, tactile experiences, use of aromas and music, the senses are stimulated and feelings of well-being, calm and togetherness are encouraged. This is achieved in a very special place referred to as our Sensory Suite.

Since the mid 1990s, multi-sensory rooms have become increasingly popular and are known to provide a valuable resource for stimulating intellectual activity as well as encouraging relaxation. The Sensory Suite at Brookfields is no exception. Fitted with a range of specialist equipment, the Sensory Suite is designed to support and meet the needs of a wide range of pupils:-

• lighting effects such as projectors with discs that disburse light patterns, mirror balls, bubble tubes and fibre optic sprays
• soft play items such as mats, pillows, beanbags, water bed and ball pool
• sensory and tactile apparatus
• cause and effect objects and toys
• music and aromatic items.

Time spent in the Sensory Suite provides our pupils with an opportunity to relax and explore under the careful guidance and supervision of staff, as well as allowing the room to be used as a tool for achieving specific educational targets. The positive effects of the Sensory Suite are diverse, but in general our pupils have shown increased levels of concentration, alertness, calmness and general awareness of their surrounding world. They appear much happier and content, tending to vocalise more and are better able to remain on task. The multi-sensory experience enhances the development of sensory skills, eye-hand co-ordination, cause and effect responses, language development and relaxation, enabling our pupils, whatever their level of disability, to change and influence their environment in a positive way.