Supporting all learners: High School learning space opens

As most of all of the spaces at the College are open, social, and noisy, this space feels private, and helps me recharge my social
batteries to be better when I go back to my classes.”

– Grade 9 Student

As part of the Dover Campus’ initiative to support education for all learners, a new High School Learning Centre opened earlier this year. Co-designed by educators and students, the space supports neurodiverse high school students with the goal of destigmatising learning support while offering a space that nurtures various student needs and a sense of belonging.

The space offers multiple ‘zones’; a garden, a classroom meeting area, quiet reflective spaces, and a sensory dark room where students can take an immersive 15-minute reset. The sensory-supportive modular furnishings support student drop-ins, while the classroom corner supports coaching for educators seeking to learn more about how space and classroom design can support neurodiversity and different
ways of learning.

With its central location beside Reception on Dover Campus, the visibility is vital to conveying a supportive message. “It’s all about visibility,” says Claudia-Campbell Pegg, Head of High School Learning Support on Dover Campus.

“The central location communicates how support for our students is not hidden away, and is a testament to the priority and emphasis
UWCSEA is placing on this important pathways programme.” When the Foundation team visited recently, a couple of students were enjoying some down time, and shared their reflections on the space: “Some people don’t do well with overwhelming noise; it can be too much. Having a space that can be confirmed as quiet helps us recharge our social battery and then we can be better back in our classes,” a Grade 10 student reflected.

Another shared, “This inclusive space has a calm atmosphere where you actually see other students who are like you. I didn’t realise how many people in this community were like me ... being allowed to be in such an inclusive environment makes me feel more confident.”

What’s next for the High School Learning Centre? “Thinking forward, we’d love to grow. We want it to be the coolest space on campus where everyone can get what they need to learn,” Claudia shares. There are plans to collaborate with the Art Department to design and paint the outdoor planters and seating area, and continue to build the outreach and engagement to better educate teachers and the community.