The school environment and the pupil with a visual impairment

Indoors

Lighting

Good lighting is essential especially in corridors and stairways.

Contrast

Colour contrast/tone should be applied to the following:

1. Signage
   
   
2. Fittings in toilets and changing rooms e.g. tiles around washbasins.
3. To highlight switches.
   
   
4. To define a circulation route.
   
   
5. Increase visibility of doors. Paint the door/doorframe contrasting colours and use contrasting coloured handles.

Glare

Glare must be avoided. Fit blinds in classrooms and anti-glare film on stairways that are very sunny. Beware of glare on worktops and floors. (A sheet of black sugar paper placed on a work surface will solve one problem).

Safety

• All stairways should have handrails.
  
  
• The edges of all stairs should be highlighted in a contrasting colour.
  
  
• Avoid clutter especially in corridors.
  
  
• Try and keep all furniture etc in the same place.Mark glass doorways with coloured transfers.
  
  
• Do not leave doors/windows half open.

Furnishings

All furnishings should contrast with the colour of the walls and floors.

Patterned floorings etc are very “busy” and can be confusing. If replacing old wooden PE fixtures, e.g. wall bars, then consider purchasing the brightly coloured equipment that is now available.

Outdoors

• Ensure playground equipment etc provide good contrast.
  
  
• Moveable equipment should be set up in the same place each time.
  
  
• Highlight the edges of all steps in a contrasting colour (usually yellow).  Slip resistant paint should be used (code 050506-312-01) and can be bought from Surface Technology, Tel. No: 01782 722147.
  
  
• Fit handrails alongside steps.
  
  
• Ensure all bushes etc are cut back from steps and pathways.
  
  
• Do not allow parking in non-designated areas.

Access to information

All written materials should be available in large print, Braille or on audio tape.  The Advisory Service for the Visually Impaired has a transcription service that may be able to help.

Equipment

Specialist equipment is available on loan from the Advisory Service for the Visually Impaired. It is the school’s responsibility to buy smaller items; a list of suggested equipment is available from the Service.

Further information

Further help and advice is available from the Specialist Support Service Visual Impairment Team.

Address:

Phone: (01785) 356830
Minicom: (01785) 356835
Fax: (01785) 356841
Email: sss.service@staffordshire.gov.uk

If you, or someone you know, would like a copy of this in large print, braille, an audio tape or in languages other than English, please contact the Visual Impairment Team on 01785 356830.