Oki parents/ guardians, 

We are excited to share that Somerset School now has two Sensory Spaces available to support our students' well-being and unique sensory needs. If you are interested in your child accessing these spaces, please read on for more details and the action required. 

Here’s WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: 

Sensory Room/ Calming Space: 

This is a special room designed to therapeutically calm an individual through specific lighting, bubble tubes, and other objects. This space provides a soothing environment for students who may need a break or quiet time during the school day. 

Sensory Gym: 

This is a structured environment with a variety of equipment to stimulate the senses, as well as the vestibular and proprioception systems. This space is ideal for students who need sensory input or movement to help regulate their bodies and minds. 

  • The vestibular system helps with balance, movement, and spatial orientation, allowing us to understand how our bodies move in space. It's what helps children stay upright, coordinate their movements, and know where they are in relation to the ground and other objects. 
  • The proprioception system is often called the "body awareness" system. It helps children understand where their body parts are without looking and allows them to perform tasks like walking, jumping, or reaching without needing to visually monitor their movements. This system is key for motor control, posture, and stability. 

We also utilize our Sensory Gym to support students in developing age-appropriate social interactions and communication skills. This includes, but is not limited to, activities like turn-taking and building wait tolerance, which are essential for fostering positive relationships and cooperation among students. 

Somerset School's Sensory Gym was designed with the support of our Area Multidisciplinary Team comprised of a Physiotherapist and Occupational Therapist in addition to a Complex Needs Strategist. 

KEY COMPONENTS of INSTRUCTIONAL APPROACH _ "The Regulated Classroom" 

In the context of "Bottom-Up" Trauma-Informed Teaching, "The Regulated Classroom" emphasizes the following key components: 

  • Connection: Focus on building strong connections between teachers and students, and among students, to create a safe and supportive environment. This is essential for establishing trust, understanding, and open communication, especially for students who have experienced trauma. 
  • Activation: Engaging students in ways that are mindful of potential triggers while promoting a sense of safety, belonging, and well-being. Teaching strategies are used to energize and stimulate cognitive engagement without overwhelming students. 
  • Settling: Establish an atmosphere of calmness and emotional regulation by using sensory elements like soothing lighting or quiet spaces. This includes a predictable routine and self-regulation tools to support a learning-conducive environment. 
  • Affirmation: Reinforce positive behaviors and achievements by highlighting students' strengths and efforts. This approach aims to build self-esteem and maintain a positive classroom climate. 

WHY it MATTERS: 

These spaces are designed to support students’ emotional and sensory regulation, helping them to focus better, learn effectively, and feel safe and included in their school environment. 

ACTION REQUIRED: 

If you wish for your child to have access to these spaces, we ask that you complete and return the Acknowledgement of Risk forms. 

Note: Sensory Spaces are supervised by staff who have completed Annual Training. Student access to these spaces will be determined based on individual needs and available staff resources. 

Sensory Space Acknowledgement of Risk form found HERE 

Complete of these form help us ensure your child's needs are met and that everyone understands the guidelines for safe use of the spaces. 

Thank you for your attention and support in helping us create a welcoming, caring, and inclusive environment for all students. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out. 

Hand to Heart,  

Nathan Bane   

Principal, Somerset School