A PEACEFUL sanctuary at a Rugby primary school is helping pupils enjoy calm and reflective activities.
Bilton C of E Junior School has opened its new Wellbeing Sanctuary, which is designed to provide an environment to improve pupils’ communication and social skills.
Pupils and staff were delighted to be able to finally open the Sanctuary following delays caused by Covid, with fund-raising for the project having started in 2019.
It is currently being used for activities including occupational therapy and play therapy.
Head of School Kate Webb said: “The Sanctuary has a key role as an essential resource for us to enable our children to explore, talk about, and develop emotional resilience within a peaceful environment.
“We find it is the perfect environment for group discussion about sensitive issues in the curriculum, as it provides a ready-made circle.
“It is a calm environment so children are able to get into a different mind-set than in the classroom. The children associate it with calm reflection and discussion.
“We feel truly blessed to have this amazing space as part of our school, and thank all of those who contributed towards the success of the project. Without the donations and hard work from so many people, we would not have been able to turn our vision into a reality.”
Year 5 pupils Jake and Isla said they enjoy coming to the Sanctuary because it is calm and quiet, adding: “We can enjoy time with our friends without it being too loud and noisy. We are pleased that lots of children come to Wellbeing Wednesday when we sometimes do colouring, read books and listen to relaxing music.”
