A new Safe Space has officially opened at Longtown Primary School, providing pupils with a calm, comforting environment where they can reflect, regulate, and feel supported.
The Safe Space was created as part of Cumbria Education Trust’s ongoing commitment to supporting emotional wellbeing and positive mental health. It offers pupils a peaceful area to talk, share their feelings, or simply spend time grounding themselves through calming activities and sensory resources.
To mark the opening, we welcomed some special guests who have played an important role in bringing the Safe Space to life, including the Learning Provision team at the school, parents, grandparents, children and other key members of the community.
Artist Jonathan Hunter, who created the beautiful wall murals, shared, “There were times in my life that were difficult as a child, and when I was asked to do the murals I said yes because I wanted to give something back. I would have loved to have had something like this in my school growing up – it would have made a real difference.”
Visitors and pupils alike have already shared heartfelt feedback about the new space. One parent said, “I feel relaxed and calm. I enjoy looking at the paintings and other lovely items that are in there. The carpet makes me feel at home, and it really does make me feel safe when I’m in here.”
A pupil added, “I love the Safe Space because it’s calming and makes me happy. I like to colour and draw pictures. I like the blackboard where I can write and draw how I’m feeling. I also like looking at the artwork on the walls and spotting all the different animals.”
Teaching assistants have also noticed the positive impact the room is having on pupils, “It’s a lovely space for children to go to regulate – they can return to their classroom more settled.”
The Safe Space provides children with calmness, grounding resources, and opportunities to talk openly about their emotions. It empowers them to develop positive coping strategies and supports their overall wellbeing – helping every child feel safe, understood, and ready to learn.
A special plaque is being created to mark the opening, which will soon be displayed proudly at the entrance to the Safe Space.
