New Sensory Wall Enhances Learning at The Vine Campus

Innovative sensory equipment created through upcycling collaboration

Students with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) at The Vine campus in Leeds have gained access to a new sensory wall developed in partnership with Leeds City College’s upcycling centre, the RE: Workshop. This project, which involved refurbishing old materials, aims to provide bespoke sensory equipment tailored to the needs of high-needs learners.

Design and Features of the Sensory Wall

The sensory wall was designed and built over several months through collaboration between students, staff at The Vine, and the RE: Workshop team. It features a range of interactive elements including touch-sensitive lights, electric drums, and projectors. These components are intended to engage learners through sensory stimulation and encourage interaction in a supportive environment.

Specialist Facilities at The Vine

The Vine campus, which opened in Burmantofts in 2023, specialises in education for learners with PMLD. The purpose-built site includes facilities such as a hydrotherapy pool, rebound therapy equipment, and specialist sensory rooms designed to meet the complex needs of its students.

Benefits and Impact

• Kerry Fisher, Programme Leader at The Vine, highlighted the challenge of sourcing tailor-made sensory equipment and noted the value of creating bespoke solutions through this project.
• The sensory wall allows learners to engage with the equipment in ways that support their individual needs, such as tracking lights with their eyes, which can be difficult to achieve with standard equipment.
• Previous collaborations between The Vine and the RE: Workshop have produced other accessibility equipment, including hoist beds and portable wall padding, which assist with health care plans and safety.
• Outdoor sensory musical instruments, such as bongos, rain wheels, xylophones, and finger mazes, have also been developed to support mood improvement and emotional regulation through sound and movement exploration.

Focus on Sustainability and Creativity

The RE: Workshop promotes sustainability by upcycling materials that might otherwise be discarded. It offers workshops on refurbishment and creative reuse, combining environmental responsibility with practical learning experiences.

Neil Bostock, manager of the RE: Workshop, commented on the positive impact of the projects, emphasising the joy and engagement they have brought to learners and expressing optimism about future collaborations.

Recognition and Future Plans

The Vine has submitted its recent projects for consideration in the Green Awards UK 2026, which acknowledge efforts in environmental responsibility and sustainable innovation.