Following the success of its introduction to the Worcestershire School Games programme last year, Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire have once again launched the Sensory Adventure Walk! 

This is a virtual opportunity open to pupils of all ages, and targets those with sensory impairments and/or Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

The aim of the event is to challenge the different senses through a walk which can take place at school, local parks, green space and nature reserves. 

Pete, NCW’s Sports Therapist, along with the help of Maggie and Kylie, Learning Support Assistants, organised a Halloween themed sensory walk for students Toby and Corey around the NCW campus.

Due to their vision impairment, the boys’ other senses were vital in being able to identify where they were on campus, what was around them and what items they were given to explore.

Toby and Corey experienced sounds such as running water by the fountain, birdsong and bells ringing for lessons. They smelled mint, rosemary and chives from the sensory plants on the front lawn, as well as the damp fallen Autumn leaves and seasonal pumpkins. 
The boys also used their senses to explore a green space area decorated for Halloween. They explored the feel of cobwebs and a boney skeleton, and sampled what was described as their favourite part – the chocolate pumpkins.

Pete, said: “The activity with Toby and Corey highlighted to us all how important our senses are, especially when a sense is impaired. This is a great initiative ran by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Active, encouraging schools and students to really consider how their senses are used.”

The Sensory Adventure Walk ran by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Active gives schools the chance to receive a certificate of participation as well as be entered into a prize draw to win an Orienteering Starter Equipment Kit!

Fingers crossed!