Children at Stallingborough Church of England Primary School are already enjoying a newly opened Rainbow Sensory Garden, designed to help them relax, connect with nature and explore their senses.
Officially opened this month, the garden provides a dedicated outdoor space where children can regulate their emotions, reflect, engage with the natural environment and enjoy quiet time.
Features include installations that encourage exploration of sounds, colours, textures and scents.
Sensory spaces are increasingly recognised for their role in supporting children’s wellbeing, helping them feel calm, develop curiosity and engage positively with learning.
The Rainbow Garden was created in memory of Reverend Christine, whose contribution to the school community continues to be remembered fondly.
Emily Powell, Headteacher at Stallingborough Church of England Primary School, said:
“We are delighted to officially open our Rainbow Garden in memory of Reverend Christine, who was such a wonderful lady and brought so much light and joy to our school community.
“This is a very special place for the whole school. It offers children and staff a peaceful environment where they can reflect, connect with nature and explore their senses.
“It is already being enjoyed by so many people, and we are incredibly grateful for the funding and support that helped make it possible.”
The project was made possible through the High Needs Provision Capital Allocation, a government fund provided to local authorities to improve facilities for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Coordinated by North East Lincolnshire Council, the funding supports long-term improvements to school environments, including sensory spaces, accessibility adaptations and other infrastructure projects that promote inclusion.
Several schools across North East Lincolnshire have already successfully secured funding, with grants of up to £10,000 helping to bring projects from concept to reality.
Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council, said:
“These grants give schools a valuable opportunity to enhance their provision and create more inclusive environments for children and young people.
“Schools can receive up to £10,000, which can be combined with their own funding to deliver projects that make a meaningful difference.
“The Rainbow Garden is a fantastic example of how schools can use this funding to support inclusion and wellbeing. By combining a sensory space with a tranquil outdoor environment, the garden offers benefits for the entire school community.
“We look forward to seeing more schools take advantage of this opportunity in future funding rounds.”
Schools will be able to apply for a third round of funding, giving more settings the opportunity to deliver projects that improve accessibility, inclusion and support for pupils with SEND as part of the Local Area SEND Reform Plan strategy.
Share this article