Sensory prom a 'perfect end' for school leavers with SEND

School can be a confusing and overwhelming time for anyone.

The by-now traditional leavers prom, therefore, normally offers students an opportunity to let their hair down as they end one chapter and begin another.

But what happens if the prom itself runs the risk of feeling a little too much?

Music and crowds may be just the ticket for some pupils, but those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) may need a more managed environment.

Step forward Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind (CWWMind), which was determined that school leavers with SEND should enjoy the same kind of experience as other pupils.

A "sensory prom" held at the 147 club in Coventry on 30 June was believed to be the first of its type in the city, and according to one mum it has been the "perfect end" to her daughter's school career.

Kate, mum of 15-year-old attendee Lillie-Mae from Warwickshire, said: "She liked the fact she could get away to separate rooms if it got too much. I was not expecting her to get up and dance, yet she was up there, enjoying every minute."

While designed for children with SEND in mind, there were efforts not to take away the traditional elements of a school prom.

As well as a photo booth, there was a disco with low-volume music alongside a silent disco for those that find noise problematic.

Katie said "It still had all those things that a mainstream school prom would have, that every school leaver wants to have. It really made the end of [my daughter's] school life the best it could have been.

"It was so lovely just to let them be themselves, having fun with their friends."

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