SEN Playgrounds

Ashmount School We co-designed an outdoor classroom for a special needs school by spending time on-site—observing, talking with staff and students, and participating in activities to build strong relationships. Many students had limited verbal communication skills, so observation and participation were especially important. A key insight from this approach was noticing how creatively staff transformed their classrooms—from an ocean with a desert island to a Viking ship or a concert hall. This inspired us to design larger-scale elements that act as ‘coat hangers,’ allowing the outdoor area to be ‘dressed up’ differently each time it’s used. Birkett House School Birkett House School commissioned us to design and build a sensory playground to activate an underused outdoor space for pupils with complex needs. The design process was unique and centred on celebrating natural light, shape, and texture. We worked closely with staff and students—sketching, observing, and experimenting with materials—to create a tailor-made environment. The playground features seven distinct zones, each isolating a specific sensory experience, enabling students to focus on one sensation at a time without being overwhelmed.