Project overview
Project Type: Sensory Pool / Hydrotherapy Environment
Location: Chesterfield, United Kingdom
Client: Ashgate Croft School
Sector: Special Education
Primary Users: Pupils with complex learning needs and physical disabilities
Introduction
Ashgate Croft School in Chesterfield supports pupils with a wide range of complex learning needs and physical disabilities. Providing environments that support therapeutic activity, physical development and sensory engagement is an important part of the school’s approach to learning and wellbeing.
To support pupils’ physical and sensory development, the school introduced a dedicated sensory pool environment.
The new space combines hydrotherapy with sensory stimulation, creating an environment where pupils can experience the physical benefits of water alongside calming sensory experiences.
The challenge
Many pupils at Ashgate Croft School benefit from hydrotherapy and water-based therapy sessions.
Water environments can support physical movement, muscle relaxation and sensory stimulation. However, standard pools do not always provide the sensory features that can help create a calming and engaging therapeutic experience.
The school wanted to develop a sensory pool environment that would allow pupils to benefit from both hydrotherapy and carefully designed sensory stimulation.
Experia design approach
Experia worked with the school to design a sensory pool environment that would support both therapeutic and sensory experiences.
The design focused on combining hydrotherapy with carefully controlled sensory lighting to create a relaxing and engaging environment.
Key considerations included:
• creating a calming visual atmosphere around the pool
• using lighting to enhance the sensory experience without overwhelming users
• supporting hydrotherapy sessions delivered by school staff
• ensuring the environment remained safe and accessible for pupils with physical disabilities
The result is a sensory pool environment that supports both therapy and relaxation.
Key sensory features
The sensory pool environment includes a range of features designed to enhance the therapeutic experience.
Features include:
• colour-changing lighting creating a calming visual atmosphere
• gentle lighting effects that reflect across the water surface
• sensory lighting systems that support relaxation during hydrotherapy sessions
These elements transform the pool area into a therapeutic sensory environment.
Before and after transformation
Before the project, the school had a standard hydrotherapy pool environment.
Through the introduction of sensory lighting and environmental design, the space was transformed into a sensory pool environment where pupils can experience both hydrotherapy and calming sensory stimulation.
The transformation demonstrates how sensory design can enhance therapeutic environments.
How the space is used
Before the project, the school had a standard hydrotherapy pool environment.
Through the introduction of sensory lighting and environmental design, the space was transformed into a sensory pool environment where pupils can experience both hydrotherapy and calming sensory stimulation.
The transformation demonstrates how sensory design can enhance therapeutic environments.
The outcome
The sensory pool has become an important therapeutic resource within the school.
Pupils benefit from the physical advantages of hydrotherapy while also experiencing a calming sensory environment that supports relaxation and engagement.
The project highlights how sensory design can enhance therapeutic spaces in specialist schools.
Experia perspective
“Combining hydrotherapy with sensory design allows schools to create environments that support both physical therapy and sensory wellbeing. Sensory pools can play an important role in supporting pupils with complex needs.”
Gareth Jones, Founder & CEO, Experia
Planning a sensory environment?
Experia designs and installs sensory environments for schools, healthcare organisations and public venues around the world.
If you are planning a sensory environment and would like expert advice, our team would be happy to help.
or
Learn more about sensory environments
What Is a Sensory Room
Sensory Room Design Guide
Sensory Room Equipment Guide
Sensory Room Planning Guide
Real-World Sensory Environments