A Magical New Play Space for Children
Merlin’s Magic Wand, in partnership with Merlin Entertainments, has launched its latest Magic Space at St Ann’s School in Hanwell. The newly designed ‘London Under the Sea’ playground provides an engaging, sensory-rich environment where children can explore, learn, and play.
This interactive space has been thoughtfully developed to support students, particularly those with sensory processing challenges, offering an inclusive and stimulating experience that encourages both creativity and motor skill development.
Bringing the Playground to Life
Developed over the past year with the assistance of 40 corporate volunteers, the playground features a unique blend of London-inspired landmarks and marine themes. These elements come together to create a vibrant, multi-sensory environment that enhances outdoor learning and fosters positive interactions among students.
Rebecca Hudson Betts, Project Manager at Merlin’s Magic Wand, shared her excitement about the project, stating that the playground aligns with the charity’s mission to create magical experiences for children. She emphasised that this space is more than just a playground it is an environment designed to spark joy, boost confidence, and support children’s development in a meaningful way.
Exciting Features for Interactive Learning
The London Under the Sea playground offers an innovative combination of movement, sound, and texture to create a unique learning experience. Some of its standout features include:
- A sensory seating circle inspired by London’s skyscrapers
- A Tower Bridge-themed climbing wall for active exploration
- A London Underground-inspired sensory tunnel
- Music chimes to encourage auditory engagement
- A water wall for hands-on sensory play
These elements provide children with a safe yet stimulating space where they can engage their senses, improve coordination, and enjoy meaningful playtime. The design ensures that children of all abilities can interact with their surroundings in a way that suits their individual needs.
A Transformative Addition to St Ann’s School
Timmy Holdsworth, Headteacher at St Ann’s School, expressed gratitude for the initiative, acknowledging the incredible efforts of Merlin’s Magic Wand and its volunteers. He highlighted how the playground will serve as a valuable addition to the school, providing students with a space where they can develop important life skills while engaging in outdoor activities.
He also noted that interactive environments like these play a crucial role in fostering confidence, promoting positive relationships, and enhancing students’ overall well-being. The new sensory space will support children’s emotional and educational development, ensuring they have a safe and engaging environment for years to come.
A Celebration of Play and Community
The playground was officially opened on Friday, 7 March, with students, families, and representatives from Merlin’s Magic Wand, Merlin Entertainments, and Merlin Magic Making in attendance. The event marked an exciting milestone for the school, celebrating a project that will bring lasting joy and enrichment to its students.
This initiative reflects Merlin’s Magic Wand’s commitment to creating inclusive play environments that inspire creativity, learning, and growth. Through projects like London Under the Sea, the organisation continues to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives, ensuring they have access to engaging, accessible, and imaginative play spaces.