Two Maltby Learning Trust primary schools have opened new sensory rooms to enhance learning for children with additional needs.

Maltby Redwood Academy and Maltby Manor Academy have both introduced the facilities, as part of a project to create new sensory rooms at each of Maltby Learning Trust’s four primary schools.

The Trust engaged with Rotherham Local Authority’s Accessibility Funding scheme to transform under-utilised spaces in each of the schools into safe and calm environments designed to support pupils’ emotional regulation, sensory needs and wellbeing.

Additionally, the community group Rother Valley Lions supported the creation of the facilities with two grants towards furniture and resources.

Davide Horrigan, executive director of primary education at Maltby Learning Trust, said: “The creation of sensory rooms in all our primary schools is one of our key initiatives for the current academic year and we are proud to have achieved it at Redwood and Maltby Manor so quickly. We are committed to providing innovative, inclusive, and forward-thinking learning environments across our schools and academies.

“The sensory rooms are tailored specifically to enhance learning for children with additional needs and equipped with blended edge multi-projection technology, LED multi-colour lighting, and atmospheric sound to help students manage anxiety and focus on their learning journey. Inclusive spaces such as sensory rooms are vital for fostering a supportive and nurturing learning environment for all our students.”

A multi-academy trust which works to ensure schools collaborate and support common goals, Maltby Learning Trust was formed in 2014 and consists of seven schools, with three secondary schools in addition to its four primary schools. For further information about Maltby Learning Trust, visit www.maltbylearningtrust.com