Northern Ireland

School transforms neglected cupboard into sensory room for children

The Blue Room is a place where children can stop, relax and focus on good things
The Blue Room is a place where children can stop, relax and focus on good things The Blue Room is a place where children can stop, relax and focus on good things

A SCHOOL has transformed a neglected `walk-in cupboard' into a new sensory area for pupils.

Staff in Glengormley Integrated PS said they recognised the importance of utilising every available space no matter how small, with schools facing cuts and tight budgets.

Mary Gallagher and Joanna Lipska, two behaviour support specialists realised the potential of the cupboard.

It is now a sensory area where children, especially those who experience behaviour challenges, can use to calm down and re-focus.

Ms Lipska, one of the creators of the Blue Room said: "We needed somewhere where children could stop, relax and focus on good things."

Pictured at the opening are Pat Chapa, assistant advisory officer for SEBD, Andrea Kelly, advisor for SEBD and behaviour support and Jean Moir, senior teacher in Lea Green Primary Unit.