“Throughout these last few workshops I've learnt a deeper meaning of happiness”
Participant, In Isolation
In Isolation is a project about isolation booths - the solitary spaces used for discipline in secondary schools - and teenage happiness.
Young people who have spent time in internal exclusion at school are invited to work with professional artists to reimagine isolation booths to reflect the things that bring them joy.
I originally developed a pilot of the project in May 2026 at the Young Vic Theatre, in collaboration with researcher Poushali Ganguli, designers Finlay Jenner and Shani-Louise Osei and producer Melanie Anouf.
We worked with seven paid ‘artist-researchers’ aged 17-22 to explore isolation and happiness. Each artist-researcher created a concept model of a redesigned isolation booth. They included a secret door into the roots of a pine tree, a caravan representing peace and a blank booth that audiences could paint themselves.
We are now working to develop a full version of the project, supporting more young people to develop their own artistic practice, take ownership of their educational experience and create a whole exhibition of full-sized reimagined isolation booths.
“My artwork explores nostalgia. The hourglass shape represents time and how quickly childhood passes by. The umbrella symbolises protection from the choices and pressures we face in the future.”
“My isolation booth has become a caravan by the sea. It represents a space for reflection and retreat, offering solitude and peace in a connected world.”
“I want people viewing this isolation booth to feel at peace in contrast to how traditional isolation booths used in our school can make children feel uncomfortable and enclosed.”
“To be boldly and unapologetically authentic is to allow yourself to be unapologetically blissful. It’s more than just being yourself quietly it’s embracing your identity openly and courageously.”
“My piece is a photobooth where people can dress up and become different versions of themselves. It shows the unity of people when they all collectively create a piece of art.”
“My booth is a blank space for audiences to create their own artwork on in the most joyful way possible. I want people to feel like a child painting - with bright colours and lots of mess.”
“My isolation booth has become two booths. It is about feeling like you belong in a group or even a duo. It's all about how being together makes us feel.”
Internal exclusion is one of the most widespread disciplinary practices in English schools. It has no regulation, no time limit, and no official record. Schools can isolate a pupil for as long as they choose.
Over 8% of pupils in mainstream secondary schools experience isolation on a weekly basis.
Pupils in isolation lose an average of eight hours of classroom time per week.
Pupils with SEND and those eligible for free school meals are disproportionately affected by internal exclusion.
The practice remains entirely unregulated.
Link: School isolation rooms are damaging pupil wellbeing, new study warns