Assistive Technology at Chailey

Our engineering and assistive technology team are committed to adapting technology for every student so they can learn, communicate and be more independent.

Our new Tech Room is designed to be a fun and engaging place for the children and young people, but it's also a functional assessment space.

Decorated in CVI (Cerebral Visual Impairment) friendly colours, the tech room offers a learning environment that differs from a classroom. It's truly an innovative and creative space!

Explore some of the innovative assistive technology we offer our students:

Assistive Gaming

We have full adaptive gaming kits for Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch. Gaming sessions are not only fun but they are used to support Speech and Language Therapy sessions. By integrating VOCA (Voice Output Communication Aid) in a fun and engaging way, they enable young people to communicate with each other and play together towards a shared goal. Some families have also joined their child in these very exciting sessions!

Eye Gaze

We use Eye Gaze technology to support students in accessing learning, communication, and play. It allows them to interact with computers using just their eyes, giving them greater independence and control. We use it for a range of activities, including making choices, engaging in cause-and-effect games, developing early communication skills, and using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) software.

Resonance Platform

The resonance platform is a tactile feedback device. It provides auditory and vibratory feedback in response to a person's interactions with it. It can connect to student devices or desktops, instruments or microphones, making activities more immersive and offering several different ways to interact. Vibrations respond to music, sounds, and switch interactions, offering an alternative way to experience sensory input. When paired with switch-adapted devices, the board offers clear cause-and-effect learning opportunities.

Stories from Chailey

Max's Story

Max has a keen passion for cars and fast-paced action. When he became familiar and more confident with the Tech Room - and having developed his head switch control skills - Max expressed interest in trying out a racing game. Building on a young person’s interests and passions is always a great way to motivate them and encourage them to learn new skills.

By connecting an adaptive Xbox controller to Max’s head switches, he was able to play the game all on his own. He uses one switch for accelerating the vehicle and the other for breaking, giving him total control on his gaming experience.

Wanting to put his new driving skills to the test, Max invited his Dad to one of his Tech Room sessions.

It was magical and unforgettable! We played a car racing game together – and the happiness I felt sharing this moment with my son… it goes way beyond anything I ever thought possible.

Pawel, Max's Dad