Natural learning spaces for holistic development

The Ficus tree

The majestic presence of the old Ficus tree surrounding our site serves as a pivotal element, influencing the design and activities of Ashton’s Place Immersive Learners. Much like how this tree provides a thriving ecosystem for various organisms, both flora and fauna, our centre is designed to foster a flourishing environment for children as they grow and learn.

Just as the Ficus tree’s protective canopy supports life, our centre’s architectural blueprint ensures a foundation that nurtures the development of every child. From the overall layout to intricate details, the story of safeguarding and benefiting from the tree mirrors our commitment to providing a secure and enriching space for our young autistic learners.

The tree’s organic shapes and forms have left an indelible mark on our design, drawing inspiration from its buttress roots and intricate niches. The undulating patterns of the planting beds and activity spaces mimic the graceful leaves at the tips of the branches. The interconnected network of paths, mirroring the natural flow of the tree’s branches, seamlessly links our learning spaces, creating an environment where every child’s journey is thoughtfully considered and interconnected.

Our playspace

Children at Ashton’s Place Immersive Learners will embark on a sensory-rich journey in our expansive play space, carefully designed to cater to a diverse range of play experiences. From the enchanting tunes of musical play to the thrill of risk play, the boundless realms of imaginative play, and the serenity of sensory garden play, our space is a haven for every child’s unique preferences. Dive into the wonders of nature play and the messy delights of water/mud play, where creativity knows no bounds.

Seamlessly woven into the natural landscape are purposeful pathways, encouraging fluid movement throughout our play space. In proximity to our specialised ACE (Autism Connect Early) room, discover thoughtfully curated proprioceptive activities. This dedicated area boasts exercise balls, trampolines, crawl spaces, and other niche sections tailored to provide a supportive and engaging environment for children with autism. At our play space, inclusivity is not just a design principle but a promise, ensuring every child, regardless of their unique needs, finds a world of joy, exploration, and connection.

Sensory garden

Step into our vibrant play haven where a myriad of play types awaits children of all abilities. From musical melodies to the thrill of risk play, imaginative wonders, and sensory delights, every corner is designed for exploration. Nature’s textures, colours, and scents surround, creating a multi-sensory experience. Our thoughtfully crafted pathways, rich with varied textures and shapes, lead to inclusive spaces that cater to the unique needs of all children, including those with autism.

Risk play

In our natural playscape, children engage in exhilarating risk play, fostering physical and cognitive development. As they climb and navigate terrain, they develop balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. Risk play ignites creativity, building confidence and resilience. Our carefully designed environment encourages adventurous exploration, ensuring a holistic play experience that nurtures a child’s physical and mental well-being.

ACE (Autism Connect Early) Programme

In our outdoor natural setting, children with autism thrive in our ACE (Autism Connect Early) Programme. They navigate sensory elements like trampolines at their own pace, fostering self-regulation and sensory integration. Surrounded by nature, this tailored approach encourages individualised exploration, creating a serene space where each child can engage, discover, and flourish at their own rhythm, promoting holistic well-being and a deeper connection with their surroundings.

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