A new fundraising appeal to create spaces where learning can thrive for autistic young people with complex needs has got off to a flying start, thanks to a charitable Trust.

Prior’s Court’s Outdoor Classrooms Fundraising Appeal has been launched to build environments that will empower young people to have deeper engagement with classroom learning, strengthen key skills and explore new interests.

And The Grace Trust has already answered the call to support the appeal with a £20,000 donation.

Helen Franks, School Principal, said: “This project will only be possible if funds are raised and so we are calling on anyone who might be able to donate or fundraise to bring these incredible learning opportunities to young people to get in touch.

“We’re incredibly grateful to The Grace Trust for their fantastic support in getting this appeal off to the best possible start and their commitment to supporting autistic young people with complex needs to thrive.”

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Although Prior’s Court has an onsite school, the building was originally designed for a former boarding school and so does not fully meet the learning styles and sensory needs of the young people now living and learning here. As a result, teaching and learning opportunities can be limited, and some young people risk missing out on vital education and essential skills for their future.

To address this, supporters who donate to the appeal can help develop bespoke outdoor classroom spaces that will encourage, enable and extend learning for every young person. Designed specifically with autistic young people with complex needs in mind, these outdoor environments will act as extensions of existing classrooms, allowing learning to move seamlessly between indoors and outdoors.

The Grace Trust backs Outdoor Classroom appeal

Chris Birch from The Grace Trust visited Prior’s Court at the end of January to see what difference the appeal would make, and presented a cheque for £20,000.

“The Grace Trust, a charitable organisation funded by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, is pleased to support Prior’s Court with a grant of £20,000 towards the development of its Outdoor Classrooms project.

“We are encouraged by Prior’s Court vision to create safe and engaging outdoor learning environments that support autistic learners who may find traditional classroom settings overwhelming.

“It is a privilege to partner with Prior’s Court and we are delighted to help enhance facilities that will enrich wellbeing, learning and daily lives for autistic young people with complex needs.

“We thank you for the compassionate and specialist support you provide and wish you continued success in your vital work.”

Chris Birch, right, from The Grace Trust presents a cheque to Prior's Court young person Seb and staff member Lisa-Marie

How support will make a lasting difference to education

Many young people at Prior’s Court experience high levels of anxiety, and transitions into and out of the classroom can be particularly challenging due to complex sensory processing differences. Currently, outdoor options in the immediate vicinity of classrooms are limited, meaning essential regulation breaks can significantly interrupt learning.

The outdoor classrooms will reduce missed learning time by providing immediate access to regulatory equipment, increase engagement through tailored and calming environments, and support smoother transitions from home to classroom. They will also offer opportunities for regulation that help young people focus, participate and thrive in lessons.

The project will create four outdoor areas that will service seven classrooms in the Main School Building, the four new spaces also include areas for communal learning: a water exploration zone, a computer learning area, and an outdoor library space

Each structure has been carefully designed to protect young people from the elements, reduce noise and absorb UV rays, while still offering the calming benefits of learning outdoors.

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Helen Franks, School Principal, said: “These outdoor classrooms will make a real, long-lasting difference to how young people at Prior’s Court experience education. Having immediate access to a carefully designed outdoor learning space means young people can regulate their emotions, reduce anxiety and remain engaged with learning, rather than missing out altogether.

“This project will significantly enhance access to the curriculum, supporting greater participation, focus and engagement, and leading to more consistent and meaningful learning outcomes for young people living and learning at Prior’s Court.”

Explore the outdoor areas

The outdoor classrooms will include a wide range of bespoke equipment selected to support learning, regulation and development.

Features will include:

• water play and sandpits to encourage problem-solving and communication,
• outdoor musical instruments to support self-expression and fine motor skills,
• learning panels to help teachers deliver curriculum content in engaging and accessible ways.

Additional elements such as STEAM tables, occupational therapy blocks, trim trails and swings will support creativity, physical confidence and emotional regulation, helping young people to access learning in ways that work for them.

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Inspired by a previous appeal

Inspired by the success of the outdoor learning space at the Piper Arts Centre, Prior’s Court aims to create an environment where young people can regulate quickly and return to learning without lengthy interruptions.

Natalie Norris, Prior’s Court Fundraising Manager, said: “This appeal is an opportunity to make a real difference that lasts a lifetime. As a not-for-profit registered charity, donors can make a significant impact on the young people we support.

“Every donation will help create spaces that enable autistic young people with complex needs to engage with education, develop vital life skills and discover new passions.”

To find out more about the Outdoor Classrooms appeal or to support the project, visit the appeal page or contact the Fundraising team.