Designing Inclusive Spaces for SEND: Why Sensory Environments Matter More Than Ever
Jan, 2026
Across the UK, schools and nurseries are seeing a significant rise in the number of pupils requiring special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support. Recent government statistics indicate that one in five pupils in England now require SEND support, placing growing demands on educators to create environments that are both inclusive and responsive to a wide range of learning and emotional needs.
For many schools, the challenge is not only identifying appropriate interventions, but also ensuring that the physical learning environment actively supports children’s wellbeing, regulation and engagement. Sensory spaces are increasingly recognised as a valuable tool in helping pupils feel calm, supported and ready to learn.
At the same time, designing and installing effective sensory environments requires specialist knowledge, thoughtful planning and resources that align with both educational outcomes and school budgets.
Creating Bespoke Sensory Environments for Schools
To help schools respond to these growing needs, Findel has launched a new end-to-end bespoke sensory room design service for schools and nurseries.
The service provides tailored sensory environments designed to support a wide range of SEND needs, with Findel supporting educators throughout the process. From initial design consultation through to installation.
Each project is built around the specific outcomes a school or nursery is aiming to achieve, ensuring that the final environment aligns with both pupil needs and available space.
The service can deliver a range of specialist environments including soft play rooms, de-escalation rooms and relaxation spaces. Every installation is completed within 10 weeks and is available to schools across the UK and internationally.
Practical Support That Extends Beyond Products
For educators working with pupils with SEND, the effectiveness of a sensory environment depends not only on the products used, but also on the design of the space and how it supports different developmental needs.
Alongside the new design service, Findel provides a broad range of SEND resources covering physical and sensory needs, communication and interaction, cognition and learning, and social, emotional and mental health.
The product range has been developed in collaboration with SEND specialists and includes toys and learning aids designed to support diverse learning styles and sensory needs.
The service is delivered through Findel’s specialist education brands Hope and GLS, both of which work closely with schools to provide practical solutions for educators and school leaders.
“With government statistics highlighting that one in five pupils in England now require SEND support, we understand the challenges schools and nurseries face to support all children.” Chris Mahady, CEO, Findel
“Through our new sensory rooms service, we can help create bespoke spaces that meet both children’s needs and school budgets, with expert guidance every step of the way.” Chris Mahady
“Our new service reflects our commitment to becoming a trusted partner to schools and nurseries, and foster environments that allow children to feel safe, understood and empowered.” Chris Mahady
Why This Matters Now
Creating inclusive learning environments is no longer simply about compliance with SEND requirements. It is about ensuring every child has access to the support they need to feel secure, confident and able to engage with learning.
Sensory rooms can play a vital role in helping pupils regulate emotions, reduce anxiety and re-engage with classroom activity; particularly for children who experience sensory processing challenges or heightened emotional responses.
By combining specialist design expertise with a broad range of SEND resources and guidance, services like this can help schools develop environments that support both wellbeing and learning outcomes.
Supporting Education for Generations
Findel’s origins as an educational resources supplier can be traced back to 1817. Over more than two centuries, the business has grown by listening to educators and understanding the realities of their world, from curriculum change to evolving SEND provision.
The launch of its sensory room design service reflects this continued evolution.
By combining specialist products, expert guidance and tailored design, Findel aims to help schools create environments where every pupil feels supported and able to thrive.
Because when educators are equipped with the right tools and spaces, they are better placed to nurture confident, capable learners. Today and for generations to come.