July 1, 2025
Building Brighter Futures: The Harrison Wellbeing Hub Takes Shape At Acomb First School
At the Harrison Foundation, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a supportive learning environment. That’s why we’re proud to be supporting Acomb First School in Hexham, Northumberland, as they break ground on an inspiring new project, named the Harrison Wellbeing Hub.
Pupils from Acomb First School helped lay the first bricks of what will become a purpose-built room for children who experience sensory challenges, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These children often face barriers to learning that can be mitigated with the right environments and interventions. This hub, designed and built with their needs in mind, will have a transformative impact not just on students at the school, but on the wider Hexham community.
The project is being made possible through a £128,000 donation from the Harrison Foundation and construction will take place over the summer, with the hub set to open in time for the new school year in September 2025.
The sensory hub will include a multi-use sensory room, accessible toilet facilities, kitchen, and office space, all constructed using sustainable materials, including a green ‘living roof’ built with recycled plastic bricks. These innovative materials not only reduce environmental impact but are also more durable and resistant to the elements.
Harrison Foundation trustees Daniel Harrison MBE and Siobhan Harrison, visited the school and took part in the building efforts alongside the students.
Daniel said: “It’s been great to meet the children and help them build the first stages of the sensory classroom. All of us at the Harrison Foundation are delighted to support Hannah and the team with this project that will be a valuable addition to the children’s education. It was great to see how excited they are about it.”
Headteacher Hannah Williamson added: “I am so grateful to the Harrison Foundation for their generous donation to Acomb First School. The Wellbeing Hub will make a fundamental difference to the children at Acomb First School now and in the future.
“The children have been instrumental in the design of this hub. They have used their knowledge of our wonderful school, how we are all different and what helps different children to learn to develop their ideas.
“With nationally growing numbers of children with SEND, this amazing opportunity will mean Acomb First School has the resources to meet the needs of our Acomb family to the very best of our ability.”
The Harrison Wellbeing Hub isn’t just for term-time use. Local charities and community groups will be able to access the facility on weekends and during school holidays, extending its benefit well beyond the school walls.