A new interactive floor system which helps children with autism develop communication skills has been unveiled at Springhallow School in Ealing.

The interactive floor system features a state-of-the-art overhead camera which responds to body movement. Using image, video and audio files, the system provides a truly immersive experience designed to stimulate the development of young people with autism.

This month local Councillor Linda Burke visited Springhallow School to see the interactive system in action. She was joined by representatives from the CareTech Foundation and COSARAF Foundation – the charities which made the system’s installation possible. The two charities donated £10,000 to help the school purchase the interactive system.

The system is designed so that even those with limited movement can interact with it and alter their environment, making the system fully inclusive for all. Teachers are given full training and are able to design a programme around the specific needs of pupils using any image, video or audio files they like meaning that the system provides a truly immersive, stimulating experience.

Haroon Sheikh, Chair of the CareTech Foundation said:

At the CareTech Foundation, we are committed to supporting the community and giving those with learning difficulties every opportunity to get the most out of life. We were thrilled to be invited back to Springhallow school to see at first-hand the impact that the new interactive floor system is having, and to hear from staff on the positive effects this system has had on each pupil’s wellbeing.

Springhallow School in Ealing is a specialist school for pupils aged 4-16 years with a diagnosis of Autism, including Asperger’s syndrome. The school strives to give each child specialised education according to their individual needs, while also offering their families emotional and educational support to improve their child’s communication, independence and well-being.

Image credit: CareTech Foundation