Ysgol Cynefin, formerly The Court Special School, provides education for primary-aged pupils with emotional and behavioural needs. As the school prepares to relocate to a new, purpose-built facility, staff and pupils face a significant transition. While the move promises improved spaces and resources, change can often trigger anxiety among pupils, particularly those with additional emotional needs.
The upcoming relocation posed a challenge: how to help pupils feel comfortable and confident about their new environment before physically visiting the site. For many, unfamiliar surroundings can heighten stress and uncertainty, impacting their emotional wellbeing and readiness to learn.
The Kier team identified an opportunity to use Kier’s Digital Suite to create a positive, engaging familiarisation experience. Working closely with teaching staff, Kier organised small-group sessions for all pupils at the school. Using immersive technology and an Xbox controller—a tool that immediately captured pupils’ interest—the team enabled pupils to virtually walk through their new school.
Through this interactive experience, pupils explored key areas such as:
The new entry routes and classroom layouts
The hall and shared spaces
Corridors and breakout areas
The sessions were designed not only to answer practical questions but also to create space for pupils to express their feelings about the upcoming changes. Teachers and Kier staff facilitated conversations around excitement, concerns, and expectations, helping pupils process the transition in a supportive environment.
Impact
This initiative marked the first step in reducing anxieties ahead of the move. By providing a safe, controlled introduction to the new school, pupils gained familiarity and reassurance, making the concept of change less daunting. The exercise also laid the groundwork for future site visits in the new year, ensuring pupils approach the next stage with confidence and curiosity rather than apprehension.
Key Takeaways
Technology as a bridge: Digital tools can transform how pupils experience change, turning uncertainty into engagement.
Collaboration matters: Close partnership between Kier and teaching staff ensured the sessions were tailored to pupils’ emotional needs.
Early intervention works: Addressing anxieties before physical visits helps create a smoother, more positive transition.