NaviLens: supporting teachers to create more accessible and inclusive schools

Published 13th August 2025

Teachers play a vital role in shaping learning environments where every student feels confident and included. NaviLens is a technology that can help make this vision a reality, supporting students with visual impairments to navigate school buildings, access resources, and engage more independently with their surroundings.

Originally developed to help people navigate public transport systems in cities like Barcelona and New York, NaviLens uses brightly coloured, high-contrast tags that can be scanned from up to twelve metres away using a smartphone. Unlike traditional QR codes, these tags don’t require exact alignment or focus, making them reliable and user-friendly in real-world settings.

Bringing accessibility into everyday school life

NaviLens has moved beyond transport, finding applications in supermarkets, museums, and classrooms. Major brands including Kellogg’s and Coca-Cola have integrated NaviLens codes into their products, enabling visually impaired shoppers to independently access key information such as ingredients, allergens, and recycling details.

In schools, teachers can use free NaviLens kits and accessible QR codes to label classrooms, guide students around the building, and make learning resources more accessible. By incorporating these tools, teachers can foster a sense of independence, inclusivity, and empowerment in every student, helping them feel valued and supported in their learning journey.

Classroom inspiration poster

To help teachers bring inclusive design to life, we’ve created a downloadable classroom poster. Displayed in the classroom, this poster encourages discussions about accessibility, inspires creative ways to make learning spaces inclusive, and gives students the opportunity to think about how design can support everyone. Teachers can download the NaviLens poster below.

Making a real difference

Teachers and students alike are already seeing the impact of NaviLens. Marc Powell, accessibility innovation lead at the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), calls it a “game-changer” for independence. By giving students access to essential information and helping them move through their surroundings safely, NaviLens empowers teachers to build classrooms and schools where every student can thrive.

With more schools and global brands adopting the technology, NaviLens is helping to set a new standard in accessible design. For teachers who want to make a real difference in their students’ lives, this is a simple, powerful way to bring inclusivity into everyday learning.

Teachers can access free codes and resources here: FREE NaviLens Codes for Schools.