A brand-new ‘London Under the Sea’ Magic Space has been unveiled at St Ann’s School in Hanwell, thanks to the incredible efforts of Merlin’s Magic Wand in partnership with Merlin Entertainments.
On Friday, 7th March, students were welcomed into a vibrant, sensory-rich playground designed to spark creativity, encourage play, and support children with sensory processing challenges. Built over the course of a year with the dedication of 40 corporate volunteers from Merlin Entertainments, this one-of-a-kind space promises to be a valuable addition to the school.
Rebecca Hudson Betts, Project Manager at Merlin’s Magic Wand, said: “We are so proud to be able to offer this London Under the Sea sensory space to the children of St Ann’s School. It’s our mission as a charity to create Merlin themed experiences that spark joy, foster connection and create lasting memories for everyone to enjoy. This project is an example of the magic Merlin can make for children who need it most. We hope the space inspires wonder for every child at St Ann’s!”
The London Under the Sea playground offers a dynamic environment that engages students through a blend of tactile, soothing and ocean-themed features inspired by the city’s unique character. Features include: a London skyscraper sensory seating circle, a Tower Bridge climbing wall, music chimes, a water wall and a London Underground-themed sensory tunnel.
Headteacher Timmy Holdsworth expressed his heartfelt appreciation, stating: “On behalf of everyone at St Ann’s, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Merlin’s Magic Wand and their incredible volunteers for creating our new sensory area.
“This thoughtfully designed space is a transformative gift for our students—a place where learning, exploration and connection with the natural world come alive in vibrant and engaging ways.
“This outdoor learning plays a crucial role in their development, fostering engagement with the natural world in ways that are both stimulating and enriching. At St Ann’s, every moment holds the potential for growth, and this sensory area perfectly aligns with our mission to build positive relationships and empowering futures. This new sensory learning area will truly enhance the young people’s education, providing a vital space to support their physical and emotional well-being. We are excited to see our pupils using this learning area to enhance meaningful outcomes and create countless moments of joy and discovery. Thank you, Merlin, for making this vision a reality—your generosity and dedication are truly inspiring.”
The official opening event saw students, families, and representatives from Merlin’s Magic Wand, Merlin Entertainments, and Merlin Magic Making gather to celebrate the completion of this magical new space.
