Creating calm at Harrisdale Primary School

When Deputy Principal Paula Boyd noticed an increasing number of students with higher sensory needs and anxiety, she had a vision: a dedicated space where children could regulate their emotions and return to class ready to learn.

That vision became reality with the creation of Harrisdale Primary School’s ‘peace pod’, an under-the-sea-themed room designed to provide calm and comfort. 

Mrs Boyd said it was her dream to build a room where students could go and regulate, and make sure they were ready to learn before going back into the classroom. 

“The ‘peace pod’ is a space for calm and regulation,” she said. 

“The space reflects the school’s commitment to balancing active play with emotional wellbeing.”

The journey to bring the pod to life was years in the making. Working on a tight budget, Mrs Boyd pitched the idea to the school’s executive team and enlisted the help of occupational therapists to ensure the space met the needs of students.  

From there, creativity and collaboration took over. 

Miss McCowan designed and painted the stunning murals that bring the pod’s theme to life. While Mrs Parry, Mrs Boyd joined a host of other staff to transform the space. 

“It was built with a lot of love. Our team went above and beyond to bring the room to fruition,” said Mrs Boyd.  

While it is primarily for students with special needs, it’s open to anyone who needs a moment to reset, especially after transitions such as recess or lunch.  

Even teachers and staff are encouraged to use the space to take a moment of calm.  

“We have a lot of students with autism, and others who feel anxious. They come in for 10 minutes, regulate, and then go back ready to learn,” Mrs Boyd said. 

The impact has been clear. Students are more settled and engaged after spending time in the peace pod. 

“Everyone loves the peace pod. It’s made a real difference to wellbeing and learning,” she said.