Facilities
Gwynne Park ESC has ten air conditioned classrooms. In addition to our classrooms and to support individual learning programs we have a fully equipped functional kitchen, an Interactive multi – sensory Room with accompanying technologies and resources, and an adjoining laundry with disability toilet and shower facilities.
In addition to explicit instruction to foster social competence during structured learning time, students have a range of areas for play depending on their age group. The Kindergarten / Pre-primary have a secure fenced area complete with covered play equipment, sand pit and extensive grassed area to run. The Junior block has a secure fully covered junior playground adjoining the trampoline area for students to utilise throughout the day. The Intermediate and Senior blocks have access to basketball courts, grassed oval and play equipment to suit their growing bodies.
To promote social engagement through physical activity, our play based leaning equipment includes a fully enclosed Trampoline Park, extensive Bike Track and Inclusive Flying Fox. Our Pirate Ship playground is surrounded by an outdoor table tennis table, swings, rockers, tables and chairs. Staff actively promote engagement when accessing these facilities throughout the day which increases imagination, exploration, sharing and discovery learning.
Together the Gwynne Park Schools share a range of facilities including a well-equipped library, assembly and undercover stage area, staff room, music room, canteen, playground and other specialist teaching areas.
SENSORY FACILITIES
Some students find learning at a desk in a traditional classroom difficult and many learn more effectively when they reinforce their intellectual development with physical movement. Children with special needs may also have feelings of anxiety or become overwhelmed quickly in a range of settings.
Sensory activities relieve some of those feelings by releasing energy in a positive way. Sensory activities improve alertness, increases recall, improves mobilisation, increases concentration, focuses attention, increases communication and reinforces positive experiences. Staff report increased concentration and awareness, improvement in co-ordination and motor development and students focus, attention and general alertness after each sensory session.
Sensory Room
Our interactive sensory room is designed to give students much needed sensory experiences through motor and cognitive stimulation. The room offers an active and a calming environment promoting mental and physical relaxation, discovery learning and exploration. Experiences in the room increases individual opportunities for language and social interaction, choice making and self-determination which results in increased self-esteem, self-management and self-awareness.
Trampolines
The centre has 4 shock tested Springfree Trampolines located in a fully fenced secure area. The trampolines are complete with lightweight rods to securely hold the netting in place to provide extra protection, reducing risk of injury. The trampolines assist students develop core strength and increased body awareness whilst enjoying a fun activity. Through movement, students expel energy and improve concentration. It is commonly recognised that rebounding on a trampoline can dramatically improve muscle development, improves balance and fosters kinaesthetic awareness.
Bikes and Bike Track
The centre has a fully equipped bicycle track complete with a range of different sized bicycles and safety helmets. Riding a bicycle is an excellent sensory activity which supports balancing, movement and promoting safety awareness. It caters for our students’ tactile, visual and auditory stimulation as well as enjoying the outdoor environment. Modified bikes are provided to facilitate access for all.
Flying Fox
Our fully functioning Flying Fox provides our students with a variety of play, physical activity and exploration, building self-esteem by safely challenging their ability to trust in others and in themselves.