The Bedford Estates, LondonSEND Classroom at Woburn Safari Park
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a first for UK zoos
'SENse the Safari' is a brand-new SEND classroom located in the heart of Woburn Safari Park.
Purposefully designed to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), this pioneering facility is the first of its kind within a UK zoological setting, offering an inclusive learning environment for all, inspired by the sights, sounds and experiences of the Park.
This space represents a new model for inclusive education that brings together animal care, sensory learning and accessibility. It has been shaped with specialist input and informed by the lived experiences of families.
Tash Kyle, Head of Education says:
“Visiting a zoo can be a life-enhancing experience but unfortunately, many children and young adults face barriers that make this difficult. Here at the park, we are passionate about creating an environment that enables all to learn and thrive. This project is about providing opportunities that can shape confidence, wellbeing, and a lifelong love of learning”.
While the classroom has been purposefully designed with SEND learners in mind, it is available for use by all schools and educational groups seeking an inclusive and immersive learning experience.
equipped for inclusive learning
Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for education sessions tailored to every child’s needs. Workshop attendees will join immersive, hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity, nurture wellbeing, and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
The new classroom features a sensory room and decompression zone, adaptable workspaces with rising benches and lowered sinks, as well as outdoor play and picnic areas.
Learners can take part in hands-on activities that could include animal artefact handling, tactile and sensory exploration, animal food preparation, enrichment making, arts and crafts, species talks, and even handling animals under supervision.
Architect Neil Reynolds from Louis de Soisson says:
“As a parent of children with SEND needs, it's quite difficult not to get emotional about a project like this. From the outset, we designed the building to actively support learning, especially for pupils with SEND."
learning that adapts to every child
'SENse the Safari' SEND Classroom will be officially opening from the 30th March when Woburn Safari Park's dedicated Education Team will be holding workshops that unite animal care, sensory and nature-based learning.
Opening the gates for every child to play and learn
The new SEND classroom has been created to remove barriers to learning, and is a fully adaptable space, with facilities that can enhance the learning of students of all ages.
Designed entirely around the needs of children and young people with SEND, the space will be open for bookings from educational groups of ALL kinds.
Looking for an incredible educational experience, with a world of wonderful animals? Use the enquiry form below...