Pupils at Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School in Horsham are benefiting from a state-of-the-art sensory pod thanks to the support of local Freemasons and the wider community.
The specialist school caters for children and young people aged two to 19 with severe and profound multiple learning difficulties. Many pupils also have additional physical, medical, sensory and autistic spectrum needs, as well as communication challenges.
Dedicated to helping every pupil discover and develop their potential, the school provides a creative and flexible curriculum designed to build independence, confidence and self-esteem, enabling young people to become valued members of their community.
The school recently expanded into a second site on Hurst Road, which now serves as its college campus for older students. As part of the move, two new sensory pods were installed—one at each site.
The futuristic sensory pods provide a calming, immersive environment that helps pupils regulate their emotions and meet their individual sensory needs. The facilities offer immediate and tangible benefits, supporting pupils’ wellbeing and readiness to learn.
Each pod costs around £10,500. A total of £4,730 towards one pod was raised by Horsham Freemasons from March & Darnley Lodge and Carfax Lodge through a successful hog roast fundraiser held last summer. The event received strong support from local shopkeepers, restaurateurs and businesses across Horsham.
The remaining £5,770 was provided through a grant from the Sussex Masonic Charitable Foundation, whose work is supported by Freemasons throughout Sussex.
Ellie Capas, Deputy Head Teacher at the QE2 College site, praised the impact the pod has already had on pupils.
The project highlights the positive impact of community fundraising and charitable support in enhancing educational opportunities for children and young people with complex needs.
“Our pupils love being fully immersed in the pod. They find it relaxing and calming and are always ready to learn after their session,”
“The pod can be used by all pupils regardless of their disability. They choose their favourite lights and images to watch on the screen, which helps facilitate calming and regulation.”
“All pupils really look forward to their sensory pod sessions. It has added a new dynamic to our curriculum and teaching. Thank you so much.”
Freemasons across Sussex support a wide range of local charities, schools and community projects through fundraising, volunteering and grant-giving programmes. For more information about Freemasonry in Sussex and its charitable work, visit www.sussexmasons.org.uk.
Featured Photo caption: W. Bro John Davis, Charity Steward of Carfax Lodge 7819; Sarah Garwood, QE2 School Governor; W. Bro Rob Davies, Worshipful Master of March & Darnley Lodge 1141; Ellie Capas, Deputy Head Teacher; and three pupils with the new sensory pod.