BUILDINGS, MAINTENANCE & REFURBISHMENT
Transforming SEND learning through multi-sensory experiences
to support children with complex special educational needs. The installation represents a significant step forward in how immersive and sensory experiences can enhance communication, wellbeing, and life-skills development in SEND education. Part of the Maritime Academy Trust, Danecourt Special School supports pupils with a wide range of needs. Working closely with school leaders and teaching staff, Aurora designed and installed environments that combine three-wall projection, high fidelity audio, dynamic lighting, scent diffusion, underfloor vibration, wind effects, and intuitive tablet-based control – all tailored to individual sensory preferences and learning goals.
Designed for communication, confidence and calm
W
e share how Aurora by Osborne Technologies has delivered a pioneering immersive classroom and multi-sensory suite at Danecourt Special School, transforming how pupils with complex SEND needs engage with learning and communication, and demonstrating the powerful role of tailored immersive environments in boosting wellbeing, confidence, and real-world life skills.
Aurora by Osborne Technologies has completed a landmark immersive education project at Danecourt Special School in Gillingham, delivering a purpose-built immersive classroom alongside three bespoke multi-sensory rooms designed
The immersive classroom is housed in a purpose-built modular structure and is used to safely simulate real-world scenarios, launch new curriculum topics, and bring stories to life. Pupils have explored everything from virtual world travel and controlled firework displays to seasonal experiences such as a Winter Wonderland, providing engaging, predictable environments that reduce anxiety while boosting participation.
For pupils with autism and complex communication needs, immersive storytelling has been particularly impactful. “Some of our autistic learners with complex communication needs have found
pleasure and their voice in seeing Julia Donaldson’s books come to life,” said Lou Elliott, Assistant Headteacher.
Measurable impact for pupils and staff Since opening, the spaces have driven high levels of enthusiasm and repeat engagement from pupils. An indicator of both enjoyment and perceived value. Teachers report enhanced communication, improved emotional regulation, and greater confidence, while the Aurora Console enables staff to set up sessions quickly and consistently.
“We are really happy. Aurora listened to exactly what we wanted and created a provision that will meet the needs of our children,” said Cathryn Falconer, Headteacher.
Looking ahead, Danecourt plans to create bespoke immersive content using 360° capture, enabling pupils to rehearse visits to community settings such as supermarkets and swimming pools, and to collaborate with nearby special schools on transition resources, extending the impact beyond the school gates.
The Danecourt project shows how meaningful experiences enrich education by equipping pupils with skills that support language development, everyday independence, and cultural understanding.
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www.education-today.co.uk May 2026
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