The Children's Trust School’s Sensory Careers Project is an inspiring initiative recognised as a finalist in the Innovation category of our 2024 NASS Awards.
Described by Headteacher Launa Randles as “more than a programme; it’s a movement that gives our students, all with profound and multiple learning difficulties, the opportunity to explore their abilities, contribute to their communities, and experience the dignity of meaningful work.”
In this feature article for NASS, Launa reflects on the transformative impact of this initiative, celebrates the incredible achievements of the students, and praises the tireless efforts of the sixth form team who are making it such a success.
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As Headteacher of The Children’s Trust School, I am immensely proud of the Sensory Careers project - an initiative that has transformed the way our young people engage with the world around them. It’s more than a programme; it’s a movement that gives our students, all with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), the opportunity to explore their abilities, contribute to their communities, and experience the dignity of meaningful work.
This project exemplifies what we as educators strive for: creating an inclusive, respectful, and aspirational learning environment where every young person can thrive.
The Vision Behind Sensory Careers
When we first envisioned the Sensory Careers project, we knew we wanted to break away from traditional, often tokenistic approaches to vocational learning for students with PMLD.
Our aim was clear: to create meaningful, high-quality encounters that would empower our students to engage with the workforce and develop a sense of purpose. We drew inspiration from the Department for Education’s 2023 guidance on the Gatsby Benchmarks, aligning every element of the project with these principles.
The result is a programme that allows students to explore their world through sensory experiences whilst preparing them for adulthood.
A standout initiative: Platinum Candles
One of the most innovative aspects of the Sensory Careers project is our “Platinum Candles” enterprise. In this initiative, students craft sensory products—candles, wax melts, and other items—using accessible methods. These are not just classroom activities; they are the foundation of a thriving enterprise.
Meaningful engagement with the world
What sets this project apart is its ability to connect students with their communities in ways that are respectful, age-appropriate, and deeply impactful.
For example, visits to hair salons allow students to explore different sensory elements—touching and smelling products, experiencing the emotional impact of different hairstyles, and interacting with professionals. These are not just excursions; they are opportunities for students to see themselves as active participants in the world, challenging perceptions of their capabilities.
The dignity and thoughtfulness of this approach extend to every aspect of the programme, from the way we design classroom activities to how we celebrate student achievements.
Proud of the impact
As Headteacher, I have the privilege of witnessing the profound impact this project has on our students every day. Their confidence has grown, their curiosity has flourished, and their ability to engage with the world around them has expanded in ways that inspire us all.
Our success is not only evident in the smiles and excitement of our students but also in the recognition we have received from visitors, partners, and external organisations. One visitor recently remarked:
"I came out very inspired by your lovely work. It’s impressive what you achieve. Your enterprise projects are a source of inspiration because of the precision in their execution. I walked into a very serene environment and saw happy students and staff."
This feedback reaffirms what we already know: our students are capable of extraordinary things when given the right opportunities.
I would like to thank the sixth form team, whose tireless efforts—from conducting risk assessments to ensuring the accessibility of product-making tools—have been instrumental in the success of this project. Their dedication to the project has empowered students to develop valuable skills, create innovative products, generate a sustainable income of over £4,283, and been active within a growing community.
Read about our other finalists in our 2024 NASS Awards: https://www.nasschools.org.uk/congratulations-to-our-2024-nass-award-winners/