Family-run since 2007
Real support, real experience, real impact
Learning SPACE is an award-winning family-run business providing sensory, educational and specialist equipment to schools, homes, hospitals and nurseries across the UK and Ireland.
How it began
A family business with a personal mission
Learning SPACE was founded in 2007 by sisters Lorraine (a teacher) and Mary (a social worker) - inspired by their younger sister Emma, who has Soto syndrome. They wanted to make accessing the right resources easier, more personal and more impactful. Sister Naomh joined in 2015, making it a true family mission. Today, Learning SPACE is the go-to supplier for Family Fund and a trusted partner for parents, educators, therapists and health professionals across the UK and Ireland.
The people behind Learning SPACE
Meet the founders
Co-founder & Director
Lorraine McAleer
Former teacher and late-identified autistic woman. Holds a Graduate Certificate in Autism. Co-founded Diverse SPACE in 2024. Brings over 25 years of experience and deep personal understanding to everything Learning SPACE does.
Co-founder & Director
Mary McAleer
Social worker by background, Mary co-founded Learning SPACE alongside Lorraine in 2007. Her professional expertise and commitment to families has shaped the values at the heart of the business.
Director
Naomh McAleer
Naomh joined the family business in 2015, bringing additional expertise and energy to the team. Three sisters, one mission - making the right resources accessible to every family and school that needs them.
What makes us different
Why choose Learning SPACE?
Expert-selected products
Every product is chosen with the help of our panel of therapists, teachers, parents and children from over 200 trusted suppliers.
Lived experience
Our team of 14 brings genuine lived experience and qualifications in education, childcare and specialist support.
Award-winning service
Trusted partner to Family Fund, Education Authorities, Health Trusts, the National Autistic Society and many more.
Competitive prices
Find it cheaper and we will do our best to match or beat the price. We believe every family deserves access to the right equipment.*
Introducing Diverse SPACE - our sister company
In 2024, due to growing demand, Lorraine co-founded Diverse SPACE - a neurodivergent-led training company offering immersive, meaningful learning experiences for schools, families and organisations. Because tools alone are never enough. Find out more →
