Ipswich school launches interactive sculpture project

The Play Sculptures Project at Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy supports children with complex needs by offering sensory and creative experiences.

Developed with artists from Make Play and Bethany Mitchell, the project involved students exploring a custom-designed, tactile environment to help prototype an interactive sculpture.

The Play Sculptures Project at Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy (Image: Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy) Emily Webster, co-principal at Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy, said: “We are so proud to be part of a project that places our students’ creativity and perspectives at its heart.

“It’s a brilliant example of how education, therapy and the arts can come together to create meaningful, inclusive experiences.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Rachel, Lucy, the artists involved, and our funders for making this happen.”

The Play Sculptures Project at Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy (Image: Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy) The final sculpture will return to the academy after the summer holidays before touring other special schools and public venues across Suffolk, including The Hold in Ipswich and the First Light Festival in 2026.

Families who visited the installation described it as “a great sensory, calming environment” that encouraged new forms of independence and play among the children.

The project is funded by Arts Council England and Suffolk County Council.