July 8, 2026
Harrison Foundation Opens New Soft Play Pod at The Dales School
Harrison Foundation trustee Daniel Harrison MBE has officially opened a new specialist Soft Play Pod at The Dales School in Blyth, marking the latest milestone in the Foundation’s long-standing partnership with the school to improve opportunities for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Daniel was joined by staff and pupils as he cut the ribbon on the new facility before seeing first-hand how the space will support children to develop sensory processing, communication, physical coordination, confidence and independence through structured play.
Funded through a £22,000 grant from the Harrison Foundation, the Soft Play Pod has been designed specifically around the needs of pupils at The Dales School. The facility will provide a safe, stimulating environment where children can develop the essential skills that underpin learning, wellbeing and everyday life.
The investment builds on the Harrison Foundation’s long-standing support for The Dales School. Previous funding helped create the Harrison Centre for Social Mobility, transforming part of the school’s award-winning educational train into a STEM learning carriage where pupils develop practical skills, learn about railway safety and independent travel, and explore future careers in science, technology and engineering.
During his visit, Daniel met with Headteacher Dr Sue Fisher, staff and pupils to see how the Foundation’s investment continues to make a difference. He also discussed the Government’s developing SEND White Paper and the challenges and opportunities facing specialist education, recognising the importance of ensuring that children with additional needs continue to receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
Daniel Harrison MBE said: “Opening the Soft Play Pod was a proud moment for the Harrison Foundation because we know the difference facilities like this can make to children’s lives. The Dales School consistently demonstrates what can be achieved through outstanding teaching, ambition and innovative learning environments, and we’re delighted to continue supporting that work. As discussions continue around the future of SEND provision, it is more important than ever that schools like The Dales have the resources they need to help every child succeed.”
More than 60% of pupils attending The Dales School are classed as living in poverty, making the school’s work to raise aspirations and improve life chances particularly important. Through innovative learning environments and tailored support, pupils are encouraged to develop the confidence, resilience and practical life skills that will help them throughout their education and into adulthood.
Executive Headteacher Dr Sue Fisher said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Harrison Foundation for its continued support. This new Soft Play Pod will make a real difference to our pupils, providing opportunities to develop communication, confidence, physical skills and independence in an environment designed around their individual needs. It is another important step in our mission to improve life chances and help every child thrive.”
The opening of the Soft Play Pod is the latest example of the Harrison Foundation’s commitment to investing in innovative learning environments that remove barriers to opportunity. By working alongside schools such as The Dales, the Foundation continues to create lasting opportunities for children with SEND, helping them build the skills, confidence and independence they need to thrive both in school and beyond.