Sensory Inclusive Schools

A sensory inclusive school is a learning environment that recognises and accommodates the diverse sensory processing needs of all students. Every school is filled with students who process the world in unique ways. Like mental health, sensory health is something we all have, and everyone — with or without a specific diagnosis — has different sensory needs. Recognising and accommodating these needs is the foundation of a truly inclusive school. 

Supporting all students’ sensory needs enhances well-being and attainment while freeing up specialist Occupational Therapy (OT) and Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) resources for those who need them most. For the 1 in 6 children with sensory processing differences that significantly impact their learning and enjoyment of school, sensory inclusion can make all the difference.

A Vision of Sensory Inclusion

Key features of a Sensory Inclusive School include:

• Awareness: Staff understand how sensory processing affects behaviour, learning, and well-being and are supported to make the small adjustments that lead to big improvements 
• Adaptation: Classrooms, common areas, and routines are adapted to minimise sensory overwhelm and provide opportunities for sensory regulation.
• Inclusion: All students, regardless of their sensory profile, are supported to fully participate in school life.
• Proactive Support: Strategies such as calm corners, movement breaks, and flexible seating help meet sensory needs before they lead to challenges.

Imagine walking into a school where students move through the day with confidence and calm. Classrooms are structured to reduce sensory overwhelm, and all staff have a shared understanding of how to support students' diverse sensory needs. Fewer disruptions occur because students have access to strategies that help them self-regulate. 

This is what a sensory-inclusive school looks like: a place where all students feel supported.

Why Sensory Inclusion Matters

Sir Martyn Oliver, Ofsted's Chief Inspector, recently emphasised the importance of inclusion in schools, stating that special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are the "biggest issue" affecting schools in England. He added, "I think we can direct schools to be more inclusive and reward those that are doing the difficult job." Sensory inclusion is a key part of creating a truly inclusive environment.

By embedding sensory inclusive practices school-wide, you can reduce the strain on vital specialist resources, such as OT and SLT. Plus, all students benefit from a more sensory inclusive and supportive learning environment because it focuses on getting students in a state where they are ready to learn and engage.

The Barriers We May Be Overlooking

Schools are busy, stimulating places—but for students with sensory processing differences, this can lead to challenges like heightened anxiety, difficulty concentrating, or overwhelm. Noise from crowded lunch halls, bright fluorescent lighting, and the unpredictability of transitions between lessons can all act as barriers to learning and participation.

Without realising it, many schools unintentionally create environments that are challenging for these students. But the good news is that with the right training and strategies, these barriers can be reduced significantly.

Taking the First Step

Becoming a sensory-inclusive school starts with understanding. Recognising the diverse sensory needs of your students and making small, intentional changes can have a profound impact. This isn’t about overhauling your school overnight; it’s about taking informed, actionable steps to create an environment where every child can thrive.

Beth Smithson, lead for Sensory Inclusive Schools, puts it simply: "A universal approach means recognising that sensory processing affects everyone. Inclusive strategies don’t just help students with sensory needs; they create a more supportive environment for every child."

Our Sensory Inclusive Schools package is designed to guide schools through this process. It includes 15 actionable steps to help you transform your school into an inclusive space for all learners. From practical advice on managing sensory overwhelm to supporting sensory regulation so that students are ready to learn and engage, the package equips staff with the tools and confidence to make meaningful changes. Staff can contact our sensory therapists via the website or come along to online drop-in sessions to get answers and advice specific to their school and students.

Supporting Everyone, Including Your Staff

When schools embrace sensory inclusivity, they also create a better working environment for staff. Teachers and support staff spend less time managing sensory-driven disruptions and more time focusing on teaching and learning. Meanwhile, specialist OT and SLT teams are better able to focus their expertise where it’s needed most, working in partnership with schools to support students with complex needs.

What’s Next for Your School?

Creating a sensory-inclusive school isn’t just about meeting the needs of a specific group of students; it’s about creating a culture of understanding and inclusion that benefits everyone.

What could your school achieve if every student felt truly supported in their learning environment?

If you’re ready to take the first step, explore our Sensory Inclusive Schools package and discover how you can make this vision a reality for your school. Together, we can build a future where all students, regardless of their sensory needs, have the opportunity to thrive.