Welcombe Hills school : Our first official school
WE ARE LIVE!!
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WE ARE LIVE!! 〰️
Creating accessible environments isn’t just about installing a product — it’s about understanding the unique needs of each space and collaborating with the people who know it best. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how Sensei worked hand-in-hand with Welcombe Hills School to bring our tactile wayfinding system to life.
It All Started with a Conversation
Headteacher Vikki King reached out to us with a clear goal:
“We want to build an accessible and supportive environment for our kids with additional needs to learn and thrive in our school while ensuring parents feel confident and reassured about their safety.”
She described the school’s layout, the challenges faced by their students, and the need to distinguish areas for children of different age groups. Her passion for creating an inclusive environment set the tone for everything that followed.
Step 1: Testing the Idea with a Sample Box
To better understand how our tactile wayfinding surfaces could meet their needs, Welcombe Hills purchased a Sensei Sample Box.
Teachers and staff used the box to test how different tactile patterns could integrate into their school’s layout.
Feedback from the team helped us refine our approach and tailor our solution for their students.
This collaborative step ensured that Sensei’s design wasn’t just functional but also intuitive for the children and easy for staff to implement.
Step 2: The Site Visit
Our next step was a site visit, where we worked closely with Vikki and her team to map out the school’s corridors and key areas. Together, we identified:
Primary navigation needs: Distinguishing the school’s three wings (Primary, Secondary, and Senior).
Key tactile markers: For classrooms, washrooms, and emergency exits.
We brainstormed using bright colors (Yellow, Bright Blue, and Purple) for the wings and tactile patterns that would empower students to navigate the space confidently through touch.
School floor map with initial mapping to see how the product could be installed in the most efficient manner.
Step 3: The Proposal and PTA Support
We drafted a project proposal that outlined:
The specific tactile surfaces and markers for each area.
A detailed budget for installation and materials.
📢 To bring this vision to life, Friends of Welcombe Hills school (PTA) stepped in to help raise funds. Their dedication to supporting the school’s inclusive initiatives was inspiring and made the project possible.
Step 4: Installation Day
After months of planning, the Sensei team arrived for the full installation!
Bright corridor designs were applied to each wing, making it easy for students to identify their areas.
Tactile markers for classrooms, washrooms, and emergency exits were placed strategically.
The team provided guidance to staff on using the extra pieces left for maintenance and explained how to care for the surfaces.
Watching the space transform was a powerful reminder of the impact small changes can have on accessibility.
The Impact: A School Transformed
The result has been nothing short of incredible:
✔️ Students Thrive: Children now navigate independently, building confidence and life skills.
✔️ Parents Reassured: Families trust the environment is safe and inclusive.
✔️ Staff Empowered: Teachers have tools that make accessibility simple and effective.
Join the Movement
Welcombe Hills School’s story proves that thoughtful design can change lives. Your school could be next!
🌟 Here’s How You Can Get Involved:
1️⃣ Request a Sample Box: Experience how tactile wayfinding could work in your school.
2️⃣ Talk to Us: Let’s discuss your school’s specific needs.
3️⃣ Spread the Word: Share our story with other schools in your network.
📌 Take the first step today!
