A key part of our Innovate Project was to create a “calm room”; an immersive and supportive environment that promotes self-regulation, inspired by nature and equipped with Happy Confident Kids wellbeing tools.

This project involved the collaborative development of a transformative “Calm Room” within the school, in partnership with a local artist. Completed at the end of March, the room has already demonstrated a significant positive impact on learners and staff.

Prior to the transformation, the room was a cluttered and uninspiring space used for learners requiring emotional regulation support. It lacked engaging activities and a calming atmosphere.

We commissioned a local artist created a nature-themed mural to foster a connection with the outdoors and a sprinkle of glimmers.

  • Utilitarian furniture was replaced with natural wood modular seating and a comfortable beanbag area.
  • Plants and natural colours were incorporated to create a nurturing atmosphere.The layout was redesigned to maximize space and flexibility.A large table that created a barrier between staff and learners was removed.
  • Created a dedicated space for wellbeing tools:
    • A dedicated audio station with guided stories and Happy Confident Kids relaxation tools.
    • Wellbeing-focused LEGO building sets and guided cards.
    • An “anger diffusing tower” tool.
    • Wellbeing graphic novels and books.
    • Glimmer JarTM – for collecting tiny moments of joy
    • Visual tools to encourage looking into the distance, and eye stretching.

A real highlight from our innovate funded project for West Coventry Academy has been the fantastic feedback we received from Laura’s teacher training for the new calm room at West Coventry Academy. It’s been so rewarding to equip the staff with our very own Happy Confident Kids tools, giving them even more ways to support their students’ emotional well-being. We’re already hearing about the positive impact this space is having!

Staff Feedback Highlights:

“The transformation and the feel as soon as you walk into the room is immediate and it just completely has a new feel to it and you feel so much calmer as you walk in.”

The staff said after training “can we have this every day, it has been really good”.

The room is now being utilised by social workers and staff for meetings, indicating its versatility and positive atmosphere.

Conclusion

The transformation of the Calm Room at West Coventry Academy is already, demonstrating the significant positive impact of creating a dedicated, nature-inspired wellbeing space within the school environment. This project successfully transitioned a cluttered and underutilised area into a vibrant, therapeutic sanctuary that actively supports both learners and staff in managing their emotional wellbeing.

The incorporation of natural elements, flexible seating, and readily accessible wellbeing tools has created a space where individuals can effectively self-regulate, find calm, and build resilience. The positive feedback from staff, who experienced firsthand the room’s calming effects and the power of its tools, underscores its efficacy. The room has become more than just a space for crisis intervention; it’s a proactive resource fostering a sense of community and connection.

Observations of increased learner engagement, improved staff interaction, and the overall calming atmosphere highlight the room’s success in achieving its objective: to create an immersive and supportive environment inspired by nature. The Calm Room has become a valuable asset to the school, demonstrating the power of thoughtful design and targeted resources in promoting emotional wellbeing.