The Finch Room Grand Opening: A New Beginning for Student Wellbeing

On a bright and promising morning, the long-awaited Finch Room was officially opened at Charles Darwin School marking a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to inclusion by supporting students with regulation, mental health challenges, and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The room, which is designed to offer a calm and supportive environment, was unveiled by Helen Hartley, the Chair of Governors, in a ceremony that was filled with excitement and hope for the future.

A Space for All

The Finch Room is more than just a space—it's a sanctuary for students who need a quiet, safe environment to regulate their emotions and access support for their mental health. With sensory-friendly features, comfortable seating, calming visuals, and a range of activities tailored to emotional and mental well-being, the Finch Room offers a space for students to relax, reflect, and seek help when they need it most.

Students’ Perspectives on the Finch Room The Finch Room has already become a space for many students who feel it provides them with the support they need to thrive. Students have expressed that the room’s calming atmosphere helps them cope with difficult moments, allowing them to regain their focus and balance before returning to class. A Year 9 student shared her thoughts on the Finch Room: “It’s a really quiet space, and when I’m feeling overwhelmed or anxious, I can come here and just relax. It helps me to calm down, and then I can go back to class and concentrate again. It’s nice knowing that I have a place where I can feel safe.” A Year 10 student said, “I sometimes find it hard to stay focused in class, especially when I’m feeling stressed. The Finch Room is great because I can go there if I need a break and do some breathing exercises or just take some time for myself.”

The positive feedback from students highlights how vital the Finch Room has already become in their school day. The students feel it is a space that truly understands and caters to their individual needs, especially during moments of stress or emotional difficulty.

Parents’ Appreciation for the Finch Room

Parents have also expressed their gratitude for the opening of the Finch Room, recognising the impact it will have on their children’s emotional well-being. Many parents have been thrilled to see their children provided with a space where they can receive the support, they need without judgment or stigma.

A parent of a Year 11 student, shared her appreciation: “As a parent, it’s so reassuring to know that the school is taking the mental health and wellbeing of our children seriously. My daughter has struggled with anxiety, and I’m confident that the Finch Room will give her the tools and space she needs to feel more at ease. I’m grateful that the school is making such a positive impact on my child’s emotional health.”

A year 10 parent, whose daughter has special educational needs, also commented: “The Finch Room is a game-changer for students with SEND. It provides an opportunity for them to access the right support in a way that feels comfortable and private. My daughter has always found it difficult to cope with overwhelming situations and having a dedicated space like this is going to make a huge difference for her.