Islington Council is spending £9.5 million on quieter, calmer and more inclusive learning environments for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) at 39 schools across the London borough.

The council’s SEND Capital Investment Programme is funding improvements to help children with a range of needs learn, play and thrive in mainstream education. One of the first projects completed delivered acoustic improvements in 10 schools, tackling noise and sensory overload in dining halls and classrooms.

At Robert Blair School, acoustic treatment has already transformed the dining hall experience. Executive headteacher Lisa Horton said the work, carried out over the summer holidays, had made “a really positive difference” by reducing sensory and noise overload.

Sensory spaces already making a difference

Alongside acoustic upgrades, schools are creating sensory rooms, quiet spaces, movement rooms and sensory gardens, with some projects adding wayfinding improvements to help pupils navigate school confidently.

At Moreland Primary School, new sensory breakout spaces and play areas have already had a positive impact on pupils, and on attendance. Headteacher Catherine Lawrence said they had made “a huge difference” for children who need extra support. Parent Ruqia said the new playground had given her son Ali the space to use his energy, adding: “It’s got him back in school.”

Funded by government allocation

The programme is funded through the Department for Education’s High Needs Provision Capital Allocation, with extra community infrastructure and developer funding for some projects. Pupils at St John’s Upper Holloway CE Primary School recently worked with architects to shape plans for a new sensory garden.

Islington is one of just 20 national SEND Change Partner authorities helping to shape government reforms. Councillor Sheila Chapman said every child deserves to learn in an environment where they feel comfortable, supported and able to succeed.