Ardleigh Green Infant School has achieved the Inclusive School Award.
‘Everyone Grows’
Ardleigh Green Infant School is located in Hornchurch, Essex, and forms part of the Empower Learning Academy Trust. This three-form entry school serves 270 pupils from reception to year two.
The school’s ethos, encapsulated by the motto “Everyone Grows,” is evident in its comprehensive focus on inclusivity, especially for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This dedication is further highlighted in the school’s Ofsted report in March 2024, reflecting the school’s effective practices and the high esteem in which it is held by the community. Ardleigh Green’s approach is not only proactive but also strategic, addressing the changing demographics and needs through early intervention and a tailored curriculum.
Ardleigh Green’s educational philosophy is holistic and forward-looking, guided by a School Development Plan that emphasises the importance of Quality First Teaching. This plan aims to bridge the attainment gap across various stages of development, ensuring that every child, regardless of background or ability, receives high-quality education. The school’s curriculum is dynamic, continuously adapting to meet the diverse needs of its pupils, while fostering a culture of high expectations and personalised support.
Deeply Committed Leadership Team
The leadership team at Ardleigh Green is deeply committed to the school’s vision, actively promoting an inclusive culture through collaborative efforts that include parents, staff, and external agencies. This commitment is evident in the structure of the school’s Inclusion Team, which plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable families.
In partnership with various educational and community organisations, Ardleigh Green doesn’t just function as a school but as a vibrant community hub that inspires aspiration and innovation through shared values of equality and uniqueness. This ethos of moral purpose is at the core of Ardleigh Green’s mission to ensure that every pupil is nurtured in an environment conducive to growth and development.
Ardleigh Green Infant School is a model of exceptional practice where the strength of the community, the dedication to inclusive education and the commitment of the staff converge to create a nurturing educational setting. Here, every child is valued, supported, and inspired to achieve their fullest potential. The school fosters a growth mindset culture where collaboration and effective feedback are paramount, ensuring that pupils not only meet but exceed their developmental milestones.
Strong Relationships with Parents
Governors and staff alike take pride in the inclusive and supportive learning environment that Ardleigh Green offers. The school maintains strong and collaborative relationships with parents, carers and guardians, facilitating open communication and providing extensive support when needed. This includes a range of engagement opportunities such as Parents’ Evening, workshops and themed events which strengthen the ties between home and school.
The hard work and unwavering dedication of all staff at Ardleigh Green Infant School play a pivotal role in creating a nurturing and effective learning environment that supports every child’s growth and success. Their commitment extends beyond typical teaching duties, by providing a holistic approach that includes emotional, social and academic support for each pupil. This exceptional effort by the staff ensures pupils thrive and parents feel confident in the quality of education their children receive.
The feedback from parents is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting their appreciation for the tailored support provided by the school, particularly by the SENDCo and the Inclusion Team. Parents note significant improvements in their children’s confidence, academic progress and social skills, attributing these advancements to the school’s supportive environment and dedicated staff.
Children are Articulate
Children at Ardleigh Green are encouraged to be proactive in their learning journey. Interactions with the school assessor revealed that pupils are not only polite and welcoming but also articulate in expressing their views and suggestions for further improving the school environment. This openness is a clear indication of the school’s success in fostering an atmosphere where children feel safe, listened to and motivated to learn.
Ardleigh Green’s curriculum is continually refined to ensure it meets the evolving needs of its pupils. The school employs various assessment methods to track pupil progress and adjust teaching strategies accordingly. Classrooms are designed to promote a positive learning atmosphere, with consistent displays that include learning walls to support growth mindset and cultural enrichment.
The Nest exemplifies the school’s proactive and adaptive approach to meeting the evolving needs of its pupils. This innovative approach reflects Ardleigh Green’s commitment to inclusivity and support for all its pupils.
Ultimately, Ardleigh Green Infant School stands as a beacon of inclusive education, demonstrating a deep commitment to creating a community that not only educates but also empowers its pupils to thrive in a supportive and enriching environment. Through strong community links and a steadfast commitment to inclusivity, Ardleigh Green ensures that every child has the opportunity to succeed and grow in a truly nurturing setting.
Find out more about the IQM Inclusive School Award
If your school is interested in obtaining the IQM Inclusive School Award or you wish to talk to a member of the IQM team please telephone:
028 7127 7857 (9.00 am to 5.00 pm)
or email: [email protected] for further details.
Want more information on the IQM Award? Click here to request your free IQM information pack.