Sensory gardens allow schools and other establishments to create an outdoor space which stimulates outdoor learning and more importantly, the senses. It is also worth noting that it is very difficult to “package” these type of sensory gardens as no one project is the same as the next one. A lot of gardens are in reality determined by how big the space is to accommodate them in the first place – but it is worth bearing in mind that even if you only have room for a planter with highly scented shrubs and flowers, you have still created a sensory area at your school. All sensory gardens will require a certain degree of on-going maintenance once installed or established so this must be taken into consideration too when deciding upon an area or budget.

Sensory gardens work on the basis of the stimulation of the primary senses – namely touch, sight, smell, sound and taste. As a result of this, this is why they are particularly common in SEN educational establishments.

Sight – a strong visual impact is important here so we would always advise plenty of colour or green. Our raised beds and planters would be a good starting point in this instance or things which you can grow climbers up – our Living Wall Tipi is ideal for this as you can grow climbers up the sides until it is completely or partially covered. Trellis panels or dividers are another good way of achieving this. We also sell a range of pergolas with different coloured light panels.

Touch – this can be achieved through either textured ground surfaces (such as gravel, pebbles, paving and stone materials etc) or one of our special wall mounted or free-standing tactile panels. Certain timbers also have quite a strong pungent smell to them such as cedar wood for example.

Smell – a sensory garden with highly scented and fragrant shrubs and flowers will give a plethora of different smells. Think lavender for example which is easily recognisable.

Sound – we sell a comprehensive range of free-standing or fixed music and sound panels with drums, chimes and chains

Taste – a school needs to have a fruit or vegetable patch to grow food in or simply just raised beds or planters

Like most of our products, sensory gardens add greatly to the whole outdoor learning experience. Children learn best by doing and gaining from an experience as they can take ownership of a project then.

With sensory gardens and well-being areas, we have a range of suitable products which can be sent out by courier and which require little or no installation. Or we are able to design sensory areas which require installation and usually a modicum of landscaping features as well. These tend to be for projects which have bigger budgets of course and are typically designed within price parameters and a full brief from our customer (usually done in consultation with ourselves).

Designing the Right Sensory Garden for Your School

Every school is different, and every sensory garden should be tailored to the specific needs of its pupils and environment. A thoughtful design ensures the space is not only beautiful but also practical, inclusive and impactful.

To create a meaningful and effective sensory garden, we always work closely with schools at the early planning stage.

Information We Need Before Providing a Design and Quotation

In order for us to develop a suitable concept design and accurate quotation, it is essential that we understand your school’s specific requirements. The more information you can provide, the more tailored and effective the final space will be.

We kindly ask schools to provide the following:

1. Information on Pupils’ Sensory and Additional Needs

Understanding the children who will use the space is the most important factor in designing an effective sensory garden.

Please let us know about any specific needs, such as:

• Autism or sensory processing needs

• Physical disabilities or mobility requirements

• Visual or hearing impairments

• Social, emotional or mental health needs

• Anxiety or behavioural support requirements

This allows us to design a space that genuinely supports the pupils it is intended for.

2. Details of the Proposed Location and Space

It is helpful to understand:

• Where in the school grounds the sensory garden may be located

• The approximate size of the available area

• Current photographs of the space

• Any existing features or equipment to be retained or removed

• How the space will be accessed by pupils

This ensures the design fits naturally into your school environment and makes best use of the available space.

3. Budget or Budget Range (Most Important)

Having a clear idea of budget — or even a rough range — is crucial.

Sensory gardens can vary significantly in scale and cost depending on:

• Size of the space

• Type of equipment and features

• Landscaping requirements

• Accessibility adaptations

• Installation needs

Knowing your budget allows us to design realistically and creatively within your available funding, ensuring you get the very best value and impact.

Even an indicative range is extremely helpful and allows us to propose options that are achievable and appropriate.

Bringing Your Vision to Life

A well-designed sensory garden can transform a school environment — supporting inclusion, wellbeing, learning and play for years to come.

We are passionate about helping schools create outdoor spaces that truly meet the needs of their pupils and staff. By working together and gathering the right information at the outset, we can develop a sensory garden design that is inspiring, practical and tailored specifically to your school.

If you are considering developing a sensory garden and would like to explore ideas, we would be delighted to hear from you. We are also partners with the FundEd scheme which helps schools identify grants and other funding opportunities for the sensory garden projects.

The Hideout House Company: info@hideouthouse.com or call 01832 275902

“Simon’s approach was outstanding. He took the time to listen, understand our school’s needs, and adapt designs that truly reflect our vision. His creativity, professionalism, and deep understanding of how children use outdoor spaces have transformed our Early Years outdoor environments. I highly recommend Simon and The Hideout House for any school looking to reimagine their outdoor areas.”
Ben Conway, Executive Headteacher, Aspire Academies Trust