Wellbeing & Inclusive Practices

Our Sensory 'Zen' Rooms 

A sensory room is a calm, quiet space intentionally tailored to support students to regulate their emotions, to manage stress, and refocus their energy so they can return to class ready to learn.

Students may have access to a sensory room at their campus if it has been recommended by their teacher or a specialist staff - e.g. an Occupational Therapist. The use of these spaces is well considered and will be included as an adjustment in a students Individual Education Plan (IEP), an Education Support staff member will then support a student to access the space and learn how to use it successfully. 

The tools and objects found within a sensory room may differ between campus’ and year levels. They are developed by design with individual student needs in mind. Students often show ownership of these spaces by suggesting preferred tools and activities. Within a sensory room you may find soft seating; weighted toys; fidget toys; calming lamps; tactile objects; quiet board games, picture story books, etc. 

Staff and students at NBC have reported success in using sensory rooms as a positive tool for enhancing a students likelihood of success throughout their school day and ensuring they have adequate tools and safe spaces available for self and co-regulation.

See below Elise demonstrating how to use a sensory room and explaining why it is helpful for her:

I like the sensory room because I can go in there with Mrs Taylor. In the sensory room I can play, read and rest. Elise B, Prep - 2

Sinead Walker

Learning Adjustment Coach