Why Sensory Spaces Belong in Every Primary School

At Pentagon Play, we believe that every child deserves a space where they feel calm, connected, and confident.

Sensory spaces offer just that:  a supportive, stimulating environment that nurtures every aspect of child development. Whether tucked into a quiet corner of the playground or thoughtfully built into an outdoor classroom, these spaces have the power to transform the school experience for all children.

What Is a Sensory Space?

A sensory space is a carefully designed environment that engages the senses (sight, sound, touch, smell, and even movement).

These spaces might include soft lighting, textured surfaces, gentle sounds, natural elements, or calming colours. Outdoors, they can take the form of peaceful garden zones, tactile pathways, or musical play equipment. The goal is to create a safe, engaging area where children can explore, self-regulate, and recharge.

Unlike traditional classrooms or active play zones, sensory spaces provide a quieter, more reflective experience. They support both sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviours, helping children find balance in their busy school day.

What Does a Sensory Space Look Like Outdoors?

Outdoor sensory spaces come in many shapes and sizes, but they all share the same purpose: to provide a calm, engaging environment that supports emotional and sensory needs.

Some spaces are quiet garden zones with soft planting, gentle sounds, and natural seating, while others are more interactive, inviting children to touch, move, and explore.

At Pentagon Play, we often use elements like safety surfacing, musical instruments, water channels, mirrors, or colour panels to engage the senses in different ways.

Planting schemes can be chosen to stimulate smell and sight, using lavender, grasses, or herbs. Shaded structures, such as pergolas or canopies, add comfort and containment, while seating areas give children space to pause and reflect.

The key is to design with intention, thinking about how each element will support sensory processing and wellbeing. Always remember to think about how children of all abilities will access and use the space.

Why All Children Benefit from Sensory Spaces

Whilst sensory spaces are often associated with children who have additional needs such as autism, ADHD, or sensory processing challenges, they benefit every child. We all experience sensory input differently (and for growing learners, those experiences can feel especially intense!).

Research shows that sensory experiences are vital for healthy brain development, especially in the early years. According to the Harvard University Center on the Developing Child, consistent sensory engagement helps build strong neural connections that support learning, behaviour, and emotional regulation. This is true for all children, not just those with identified additional needs.

When children have access to sensory-rich environments, they are better able to manage stress and focus on learning. This makes sensory spaces a valuable tool for promoting wellbeing and inclusive learning in primary schools.

A sensory space allows children to step away from overwhelming stimuli, regulate their emotions, and return to learning with renewed focus. It’s a proactive way to support wellbeing, reduce anxiety, and build emotional resilience. By giving pupils a place to unwind or re-centre, schools show a commitment to inclusive learning and mental health.

Supporting Learning, Wellbeing, and Inclusion

A well-designed sensory space plays a powerful role in a child’s ability to engage with learning. When children feel calm and safe, they are better able to concentrate, communicate, and collaborate. These spaces can also support emotional literacy, helping children recognise and manage their feelings in healthy ways.

A webinar published by the National Association for Special Educational Needs (NASEN) highlights that sensory-friendly spaces within schools can create calmness and reduce barriers to engagement. The study also notes that creating an environment where children feel safe and understood contributes to stronger peer relationships and a more inclusive school culture.

Importantly, sensory spaces champion inclusion. They send a clear message: everyone belongs. Pupils with additional needs are not expected to adapt to one-size-fits-all environments. Instead, the school environment adapts to them. This promotes a culture of empathy and understanding across the entire school community.

Bringing Sensory Spaces to Life in Primary Schools

At Pentagon Play, we’ve worked with many schools to create sensory-rich outdoor areas that support every learner. A popular feature is our Sensory Arbour, combining different textures and patterns within the walls to stimulate proprioception and encourage mindful movement.

We also love incorporating natural elements like water play, living walls, and aromatic planting. Our Sensory Seating Circles can double as calm spaces for mindfulness or social interaction, and Sensory Panels offer hands-on experiences for curious minds.

When planning a sensory space, we recommend:

• Choosing a quieter location with some natural shelter
• Including a variety of sensory stimuli (but not too much all at once)
• Using inclusive, accessible designs for all mobility levels
• Allowing children to use the space freely, without rigid rules
• Consulting with SENDCOs and teaching staff for insights

Every school is unique, and sensory spaces should reflect the needs of your pupils and staff. Whether you’re looking for a large outdoor sensory garden or a compact calm corner, our team works closely with you to create something truly special.

Simple Steps to Start Your Sensory Space Journey

Creating a sensory space doesn’t have to be complex or costly. The most important step is to understand the needs of your pupils and start with a clear purpose. Talk to your teaching staff, SENDCOs, and pupils about what would help them feel calm and focused during the school day.

From there, choose a location (ideally a quieter part of your school grounds) and think about what sensory elements you can introduce. A few planters, wind chimes, and a small tactile panel can make a big impact. Consider how the space will be used: is it for individuals, small groups, or everyone at once?

At Pentagon Play, we work closely with schools to develop sensory environments that are practical, inclusive, and long-lasting. Whether you're ready to build something big or want to start small, we can help you take that first step with confidence!

Creating Environments Where Every Child Can Thrive

Sensory spaces aren’t just a ‘nice-to-have’, but they’re a vital part of an inclusive, nurturing school environment. When children have access to sensory support, they feel seen, valued, and ready to thrive. These spaces improve behaviour, boost wellbeing, and create a more compassionate school culture.

At Pentagon Play, we’re passionate about designing spaces that make a lasting difference. By investing in sensory environments today, we’re helping shape happier, healthier grown-ups tomorrow.

If your school is ready to explore the benefits of sensory spaces, we’d love to help you get started. Let’s build something brilliant together!