Creating a sensory space for sensory equipment in a school can make a profound difference for students with sensory processing needs. Whether it’s a calming corner in a mainstream classroom, a mobile trolley used across year groups, or a full sensory room installation, these environments promote emotional regulation, focus, and overall wellbeing.

In this guide we'll give practical advice for setting up sensory spaces in educational settings, with a focus on accessible, effective products that support children with a wide range of sensory profiles.

Here's what we'll cover:

• What is a sensory space & why it matters in schools

• Key principles of sensory space design

• Sensory space options

• Product features & use cases

• How to integrate & maintain sensory spaces

• Action plan checklist

What is a Sensory Space & Why It Matters in Schools

Sensory spaces are thoughtfully designed environments that provide users with structured sensory input. Such spaces can include calming corners, mobile setups, or full immersive rooms. Their main purpose is to support emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and improve attention in students who may be over- or under-stimulated by the typical classroom environment.

Occupational therapists often recommend sensory spaces as part of broader support plans for children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder (SPD), or anxiety. Research shows that access to sensory regulation tools can improve engagement, reduce disruptive behaviours, and support transitions between tasks.

For example:

• A study by Pfeiffer et al. (2011) found that “significant progress toward individualized goals and a decrease in autistic mannerisms” after sensory integration interventions

• A study by Barrett et al. (2015) showed that classroom design, including sensory-friendly elements, can have a significant impact on affect student learning progress

For many children, such sensory spaces become a safe retreat to self-soothe and reset.

Key Principles of Sensory Space Design

Effective sensory space design is about creating an environment that supports regulation, accessibility, and calm from the ground up. The principles below will help ensure your space is both functional and welcoming.

• Safety first: all equipment should be designed with children in mind. That includes avoiding sharp corners, securing heavy items, and ensuring electrical components are safely installed.

• Accessibility for all abilities: ensure the space is inclusive. This means providing floor-level access to key tools and offering items that meet a range of sensory preferences (e.g. visual, tactile, proprioceptive).

• Flexibility: a good sensory space allows for different types of engagement, for example calming, energising, or interactive depending on the child’s needs at any given moment.

• Calm, clutter-free layout: a sensory room should never feel overwhelming. Use soft lighting, muted colours, and thoughtful storage to create a calming atmosphere.

• Clear zoning: separate active and quiet zones within the space using rugs, partitions or visual cues, so children can self-select the input they need.

Sensory Space Options, From Portable Corners to Full Rooms

Available space, staffing capacity, and budgets vary between educational establishments, meaning there is no one-size-fits-all sensory setup. 

The good news is that there are sensory solutions to suit every environment, from simple portable kits to larger, purpose-built installations. Here's a breakdown of what's available and where each option might be most useful.

Portable & Modular Solutions

• Portable Bubble Tube Corner with Fibre Optics: a compact setup offering visual and tactile stimulation through an LED bubble tube and fibre optic tails. Ideal for classrooms with limited space, offering an instant retreat for students who need to self-regulate.

• Bubble Tube Sensory "In a Box" Kit: a fantastic entry-level solution for schools starting out with sensory provision. Includes everything needed to create a small-scale calming zone.

Mobile Sensory Engagement

• All-In-One Sensory Trolley: designed to bring sensory input directly to students, this trolley is ideal for use across different classrooms. Includes visual, tactile and auditory tools, and is particularly effective in schools where dedicated sensory rooms aren’t possible..

Larger Installations

• DIY Sensory Corner Package: for schools with lots of space, this package offers a full, customisable sensory corner. It can include items like bubble tubes, mirrors, tactile panels, and seating.

• Musii Musical Inflatable: a unique product offering interactive, gross-motor sensory play. It responds to movement and touch with lights and sound, ideal for group settings and encouraging physical engagement.

Product Features & Use Cases

Each of the above products supports specific needs and settings:

• Portable Bubble Tube Corner: best for quiet classrooms or shared SEN spaces; appropriate for EYFS to KS2; supports visual and tactile input.

• Sensory in a Box: useful for small therapy spaces or mainstream classrooms; suitable for all ages; supports calming multisensory input.

• All-In-One Sensory Trolley: versatile for use across settings; ideal for ages 5-11; supports visual, auditory, and proprioceptive needs.

• DIY Sensory Corner: works best in SEN classrooms or dedicated rooms; appropriate for all ages with adaptations; covers multiple sensory domains.

• Musii Inflatable: ideal for halls or therapy areas; great for KS1 and KS2; supports auditory, proprioceptive, and gross motor engagement.

How to Integrate & Maintain Sensory Spaces

Successful sensory spaces rely on more than good products: they need thoughtful implementation and ongoing care. Here are some key principles to a well-maintained space:

• Train your team: ensure teaching assistants and staff understand how and when to use the space. Basic CPD training in sensory integration can go a long way.

• Safety and hygiene: run regular checks for wear and tear, and establish a cleaning routine, especially for shared tools or soft furnishings..

• Timetabling: consider scheduling use for high-need pupils or maintaining a flexible, open-door policy depending on your school’s approach.

• Student voice: invite feedback from pupils about what works and what doesn’t. Their insight can shape the evolution of the space.

Action Plan Checklist

Setting up a sensory space requires planning and evaluation. Use this basic checklist to stay on track:

• Identify needs: work with your SENCO and staff to determine the scope and purpose of the space.

• Set a budget: prioritise foundational items, with plans to add more over time.

• Choose your location: ensure it’s accessible and free from high-traffic distractions.

• Source equipment: use trusted suppliers like SpaceKraft.

• Plan training: give your team the skills to use the space effectively.

• Monitor and adapt: track usage and impact; adjust based on student needs.

In Conclusion

Sensory spaces are powerful tools in supporting student wellbeing, focus, and inclusion. With the right equipment and an intentional setup, schools can create environments that help every learner thrive. Whether you're starting small with a corner or building a full sensory room, thoughtful design and staff involvement are key.

To explore sensory solutions tailored for your school, visit SpaceKraft.