Marnebek School Sensory Garden
The creation of a dynamic and powerful learning environment is simultaneously challenged and enabled by the context.
As a Specialist and Special Developmental School, Marnebek demanded careful consideration of the learning context, the site and its integration with the existing school facilities and program.
The panel considered this project to be an outstanding addition to the facilities of the school and the interpretation of the opportunities of a Sensory Garden.
The broad range of student needs at Marnebek represents a complex scenario with an equally complex resolution. The success of the project rests in part on the impressive consultation phase that drew on specialist knowledge in developing principles and specific design features. The inclusion of places for energized play, mild stimulation and quiet time allows the space to cater for a range of students and a diverse set of experiences.
The use of materials is a strength of the sensory garden. The various materials have been chosen for their properties and enhanced through design features such as curves, bumps, verticality, and visual impact. Colour has been used through planting and introduced features. The inclusion of natural and artificial finishes is a highlight. The design incorporates sustainability as a feature through material use to achieve low embodied energy, manageable use of water, and flexible all-weather usage.
The sensory garden provides an extremely important facility in the school for educational purposes and for student wellbeing and management. The project is a demonstration of sensitivity and intelligence. It is testament to the power of ideas and the capacity for good design to enhance educational experiences.
Project Details
Architects
Jeavons Landscape Architects
Award
Winner Category 6 Landscaping/Outdoor Learning Area
Address
9 New Holland Drive, Cranbourne VIC 3977
Submitter
Mary Jeavons
Cost
Not disclosed
Photographer
Andrew Lloyd
Project Overview
The rationale for the development and the design of the space was we wanted to create a space that provided sensory opportunities to enhance the students learning and academic outcomes. The space was to provide a variety of sensory experiences through touch, sound, sight along with the integration of gross and fine motor opportunities. The design of the sensory playground was developed on the student interests and sensory requirements of the students of the school ranging from 5-18 years.
The educational specification and program requirements was determined with occupational therapists, Special Education Teachers and Education support staff. Various components of the playground were also designed to reflect various learning domains of the curriculum such as The Arts, Science, HPE, Thinking Processes and Personal & Social Capabilities.
The design aimed to integrate tactile and visually appealing detailing effortless and playfully throughout the environment. With the objective to engage student interaction due to the students desire to play and inquire rather than as a set task that can sometimes be overwhelming and foreboding.
The space has become a tremendous environment for teachers and the therapy team to implement the ‘Learn To Play’ program. Students love the facility and continually request to use it. The special features include the water wall, vertical herb garden, interactive sensory wall, water pumps and spider swing that all allow educational, social, physical and emotional support for the students. Expectations from the project have been met and the school community is thrilled with the space for the students.
