How Southpaw Transforms Mainstream Schools for SEND pupils - Let’s Build Inclusive Spaces Together

The government’s announcement of £740m to support mainstream schools in becoming more accessible for SEND pupils is truly inspiring news. With this funding—part of a wider £6.7bn education initiative—schools throughout England can finally address much-needed structural improvements, from fixing broken lifts to installing handrails and upgrading accessible bathrooms. But at Southpaw, we believe inclusion goes beyond bricks and mortar.

At the heart of a truly inclusive environment is a thoughtful, holistic approach that caters to sensory needs in a way standard classrooms simply cannot. Our specialist Multi-Sensory Environments, developed in partnership with occupational therapists, are designed to nurture each pupil’s well-being, communication skills, and confidence. We also create bespoke soft play areas, and various styles of sensory rooms and sensory classrooms ensuring that children of all abilities can enjoy safe, engaging experiences that encourage exploration and development.

What sets us apart is our commitment to manufacturing many of our Sensory Integration products in-house, adhering to rigorous quality and safety standards. This hands-on process allows us to fine-tune every element—from lighting and textures to interactive features—so that each piece of equipment delivers the highest possible benefits for the child using it. This approach makes our range of equipment particularly suited to mainstream schools looking to expand their provision for SEND pupils.

Another advantage is our collaborative ethos. Our design team works hand in hand with school staff, architects, and occupational therapists to create spaces that integrate seamlessly with existing facilities. By aligning classroom adaptations with the new government funding, we can help you make the most of current budgets while also creating a solid foundation for pupils’ long-term success.

Ultimately, with the boost in SEND funding, mainstream schools have a golden opportunity to transform educational settings and empower learners of every ability.

To discover how Southpaw’s tailor-made sensory rooms, soft play areas, and therapy-led designs can enhance accessibility and support, get in touch today. Together, we can build inclusive environments where every student thrives.